Find a Barber School in Chicago

Chicago may be the Windy City, but that doesn’t mean local men don’t pay attention to their hairstyles and facial hair. Whether they’re rooting on the home team at Wrigley Field or enjoying some music in the historic jazz district, men’s hairstyles are varied among the city’s 2.7 million residents (Wikipedia, 2017). Enroll in a Chicago barber school, and you’ll learn layering techniques, retro styles, how to achieve clean-shaven bald looks and how to groom facial hair of all lengths and styles.

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Finding the right Barber School

If you have an eye for hairstyles but aren’t sure how to become a barber, there are great barber colleges in the Chicago area where you can learn everything you need to be successful in the field. You’ve already got timing on your side since 10 percent growth in demand for barbers is projected through 2024. With some studying and hard work, you can acquire a barber college license in under a year as a full-time student.

“But what about barber schools near me?” That’s a great question! Take a look at the list below, which we’ve compiled for your convenience. Request information from those with elements that you want to explore more. Once you’ve narrowed your choices, it’s worth your time to request a personal tour of the top two or three.

Becoming a Barber in Chicago

Descriptions on paper are great, but actually seeing student-faculty interaction for yourself, not to mention the classroom facilities and tools students have at their disposal, is the best way to make an informed decision. After all, you’ll need to master a variety of tools and products depending on your speciality, and seeing other barber college students navigate their way through the learning process can be very helpful.

A personal visit may even open your eyes to training you hadn’t thought of, such as fitting hairpieces or performing men’s facials. Ask questions, and note the shampoos, moisturizers, and other products used in the classroom. It’s a lot to take in, but knowing you made a well-rounded decision about the right barber school will pay off. Once you’ve completed your training and earned your license, you’ll earn on average $41,930 annually as a Chicago-area barber (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2017).

Take a closer look at your potential employment options by exploring these Chicago barber shops and men’s salons:

Van Buren's Gentleman's Salon
235 W. Van Buren St.
Chicago, IL 60607
Phone: (312) 753-5363

 

Handcrafted Barbershop
1215 W. Grand Ave
Chicago, IL 60642
Phone: (312) 265-1237

 

Funk's Barbershop
181 Mulberry St.
New York, NY 10012
Phone: (312) 982-2143

 

When it comes to after-hours fun, Chicagoland is overflowing with neighborhoods that range from sophisticated to just plain fun. There are too many definitions to count of which counties and population areas constitute the actual city, so forget about labels and just have fun! There are plenty of popular attractions, like the Navy Pier and the wonders of the Museum Campus, to enjoy. But for authentic Chicago fare and music don’t overlook the dives and hideouts off the beaten path. If your ultimate goal is a rewarding career in a colorful city, becoming a Chicago-area barber is a smart way to find success.

 

Barber Schools in Chicago

haircut at a barber school in chicago
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Cosmetology & Spa Academy

Cosmetology & Spa Academy 700 East Terra Cotta Avenue
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Program: Barbering

With our programs designed to give you hands-on experience as soon as you start and with our many internship opportunities, you'll find that your career begins before you've even graduated. We'll teach With our programs designed to give you hands-on experience as soon as you start and with our many internship opportunities, you'll find that your career begins before you've even graduated. We'll teach you not only the industry skills to be a good cosmetologist or esthetician, but the business skills you'll need to succeed as well. In fact, you'll be so well equipped for the job market that you might find yourself hired before you're done!
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Cosmetology & Spa Academy

142 East Golf Road
Chicago Area/Schaumburg, IL 60193
Program: Barbering

With our programs designed to give you hands-on experience as soon as you start and with our many internship opportunities, you'll find that your career begins before you've even graduated. We'll teach With our programs designed to give you hands-on experience as soon as you start and with our many internship opportunities, you'll find that your career begins before you've even graduated. We'll teach you not only the industry skills to be a good cosmetologist or esthetician, but the business skills you'll need to succeed as well. In fact, you'll be so well equipped for the job market that you might find yourself hired before you're done!
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Cosmetology & Spa Academy


, Cosmetology & Spa Academy 609 S Randall Rd Elgin IL 60123
Program: Barbering

With our programs designed to give you hands-on experience as soon as you start and with our many internship opportunities, you'll find that your career begins before you've even graduated. We'll teach With our programs designed to give you hands-on experience as soon as you start and with our many internship opportunities, you'll find that your career begins before you've even graduated. We'll teach you not only the industry skills to be a good cosmetologist or esthetician, but the business skills you'll need to succeed as well. In fact, you'll be so well equipped for the job market that you might find yourself hired before you're done!
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Below are other beauty schools that offer similar programs

Cameo Beauty Academy

Cameo Beauty Academy 9714 S Cicero Avenue
Oak Lawn, IL 60453
Program: Cosmetology

Cameo Beauty Academy is a Redken Premiere School Welcome  Are you considering a career in the beauty industry? Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a top salon stylist or Cameo Beauty Academy is a Redken Premiere School Welcome  Are you considering a career in the beauty industry? Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a top salon stylist or cosmetology instructor? Cameo Beauty Academy can help you achieve your goals. Our instructors have been training students in the field of cosmetology since 1960. The School has earned a reputation for excellence and quality of education. This is evidenced by its graduates, who have achieved success in many different aspects of the cosmetology profession. About Us  Cameo Beauty Academy has been training students in the field of cosmetology since 1960. The School has earned a reputation for excellence and quality of education. This is evidenced by its graduates, who have achieved success in many different aspects of the cosmetology profession, including: salon stylists/hair designers, salon owners, cosmetology instructors, performing platform artists, school management personnel, technicians, sales representatives and other key positions for major beauty product and cosmetic manufacturers. Cameo Beauty Academy graduate Ben Molln was 2nd on the Bravo TV Show Shear Genius.  Ben is a multiple salon owner, and is an ISO/JOICO international Platform Artist. Cameo Beauty Academy is an S.E.S. 2000 Member School. Created by Redken Laboratories, the Scientific Educational Systems programs allows Cameo Beauty Academy to incorporate its own innovative cosmetology curriculum with current methodology in cosmetology education. As a Redken Premiere School, Cameo graduates are preferred by Redken 5th Avenue Salons (over 30,000) throughout the United States.  Our program of instruction qualifies the student to take the Illinois State Board of Cosmetology licensing examination. Objectives  It is the objective of Cameo Beauty Academy to provide the training necessary to prepare students with the skills required to successfully graduate and secure and retain employment in the field of cosmetology. Facility Cameo Beauty Academy operates at 9714 South Cicero Avenue in Oak Lawn. Cameo Beauty Academy has a facial room, modern beauty clinic facilities, theory and practical classrooms, a dispensary, an extensive library, a student lounge, locker facilities, a beauty supply department, and administrative offices. The 8,400 square-foot facility is well-lit, nicely furnished, and heated and air-conditioned for comfort. Since the School is located on a major thoroughfare, students enjoy easy access to public transportation. There is also a large parking lot in the rear of the School.
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Empire Beauty Schools

1166 East Lake Street
Hanover Park, IL 60133
Program: Cosmetology

As the leading group of cosmetology schools in the U.S., with 89 schools in 21 states, Empire Education Group continues to dedicate the company's time and resources to creating opportunities for people As the leading group of cosmetology schools in the U.S., with 89 schools in 21 states, Empire Education Group continues to dedicate the company's time and resources to creating opportunities for people to improve their lives. For more than 80 years, Empire has maintained this strong heritage and tradition of training future beauty professionals for rewarding and in-demand careers in the beauty industry. And, all Empire Education Group schools are also backed by the Regis Corporation, a Fortune 1000 company, and industry partner of Empire Education Group.
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Empire Beauty Schools

3106 West North Avenue, 3106 West North Avenue
Stone Park, IL 60165
Program: Cosmetology

As the leading group of cosmetology schools in the U.S., with 89 schools in 21 states, Empire Education Group continues to dedicate the company's time and resources to creating opportunities for people As the leading group of cosmetology schools in the U.S., with 89 schools in 21 states, Empire Education Group continues to dedicate the company's time and resources to creating opportunities for people to improve their lives. For more than 80 years, Empire has maintained this strong heritage and tradition of training future beauty professionals for rewarding and in-demand careers in the beauty industry. And, all Empire Education Group schools are also backed by the Regis Corporation, a Fortune 1000 company, and industry partner of Empire Education Group.
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Empire Beauty Schools

226 Hawthorn Village Commons, 226 Hawthorn Village Commons
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Program: Cosmetology

As the leading group of cosmetology schools in the U.S., with 89 schools in 21 states, Empire Education Group continues to dedicate the company's time and resources to creating opportunities for people As the leading group of cosmetology schools in the U.S., with 89 schools in 21 states, Empire Education Group continues to dedicate the company's time and resources to creating opportunities for people to improve their lives. For more than 80 years, Empire has maintained this strong heritage and tradition of training future beauty professionals for rewarding and in-demand careers in the beauty industry. And, all Empire Education Group schools are also backed by the Regis Corporation, a Fortune 1000 company, and industry partner of Empire Education Group.
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Hair Professionals Career College

2245 Gateway Drive
Sycamore, IL 60178
Program: Cosmetology

Welcome to Hair Professionals   Our school is located conveniently to all of the southern Chicago suburbs. From the most seasoned staff members to the ones in training, you will be gaining the knowledge of Welcome to Hair Professionals   Our school is located conveniently to all of the southern Chicago suburbs. From the most seasoned staff members to the ones in training, you will be gaining the knowledge of many years of experience, from the most dedicated, caring instructors and office staff who work together as a team. School owner and Director Wanda Zachary with over 35 years experience in the school industry. She is active in all of our schools, bringing in the great techniques to make learning fun. Our Students are our clients! This concept means that you as our students are the center of our attention, as your client will be the center of your attention when you graduate. In addition to our location in the Chicago / Palos Hills area, Hair Professionals Career College has two additional schools in Illinois in Oswego (Aurora / Naperville area) and Sycamore ( Dekalb / NIU area ). Use the links at the bottom of this page to easily request information from these additional locations. Cosmetology A variety of career opportunities could be yours with specialized cosmetology skills. What could be more satisfying than a profession where you unleash your creativity on your way to a beautiful, rewarding future? With skills you can use lifelong. Our cosmetology program is offered full-time and part time fit into your busy life style. In total we offer six different schedules to meet your busy lifestyle! Hair Professionals uses Salon fundamentals. The programs includes; • hair cutting • coloring • perming • skin care • make-up • nails • spa treatments Esthetics If you have an interest in the Health, beauty and wellness of the skin this will be just the career you are looking for! The entire course can be completed in 7 to 12 months depending on the schedule you choose. Growth in Day Spas are is rampant as the need for estheticians is growing just as fast. Now more than giving the luxury of a facial estheticians are professional and consultants with the awareness of skin conditions as well as the scientific knowledge necessary to make recommendations based on biological and clinical analysis. Employment opportunities in the world of esthetics include; Day Spas Doctors office Dermatologist Plastic Surgeon Make-Up Artist Image Consultant Health Spa Wellness Center Prepare for an exciting new Career. Classes will consist of lectures, demos, and hands on workshops. The course will include the use of professional products and state of the art facial machines. You will also be instructed on proper sanitation, waxing and make-up techniques. Instructor Training Course For the licensed Cosmetologist, Esthetics and Nail Tech who desires to qualify for Instructor license. This course includes all theoretical and practical instruction as prescribed by the Illinois State Board of Cosmetology. Hair Professional's is proud to offer this service to and add to the quality of teachers in our profession. Please email us for more information.
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Haskana Institute of Cosmetology | Palatine - IL

Haskana Institute of Cosmetology 341 West Northwest Hwy
Palatine, IL 60067
Program: Cosmetology

Welcome to Haskana Institute of Cosmetology.  You have found the only private school left in the area.  This means we set our standards and expectations higher.  All school curriculums are mandated by the State of Welcome to Haskana Institute of Cosmetology.  You have found the only private school left in the area.  This means we set our standards and expectations higher.  All school curriculums are mandated by the State of Illinois.  But the difference between us and other schools is HOW we teach you. Our
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John Amico School of Hair Design

John Amico School of Hair Design 15301 Cicero Avenue
Oak Forest, IL 60452
Program: Cosmetology

Welcome To John Amico School of Hair Design John Amico is a recognized name in salons through out the United States. Amico, who personally formulates organic hair and skin products along with Welcome To John Amico School of Hair Design John Amico is a recognized name in salons through out the United States. Amico, who personally formulates organic hair and skin products along with organic hair color, perms, and relaxers has many lines that are used by some of the top names in the beauty industry. He brings the same passion he has used to create these products into his enterprise of Beauty Education. Amico has founded and owned three large chains with over 425 salons. Now after selling them to move forward in the industry, he is giving back to students and professionals by sharing his knowledge, acquired through a lifetime of experience. For over 45 years, John Amico has been educating students to enter a professional career in the Beauty Industry. Amico has provided thousands of graduates with State Of the Art "Cosmetology Education," and many have gone on to become very successful stylists and salon owners. Amico's exclusive location in Oak Forest is a suburb of Chicago that offers Salon and Spa Services to clients as if they were in a salon. Student stylists, supervised by Amico's handpicked professional educators, perform services with Amico's highest quality cutting-edge products. The Educators are very well known, such as Managing Director Oliva Barr and European Artistic Directors Yenz and Reinout. John Amico Jr., who has a long history in developing hundreds of salons, is also active in training students in salon business and ownership. Amico's school is designed to have the feel of a real salon, so students have a sense of working in an authentic setting. The school is equipped with the latest unique visual teaching aids, the same used in some of the top salons in America. The education is focused with the student in mind, so they are self assured and salon-ready upon graduation. Our students don't just complete Cosmetology State Board exams with confidence; they leave ready to start on successful, rewarding careers in an exciting growth industry. Salon owners share with us that our students are consistently salon-ready for positions in their businesses. This is one of the many reasons why our graduates work in some of the finest high-end salons and spas, and quickly reach solid financial security. We Feature Accelerated classes so students can complete on a fast tract Career Placement Financial Aid Available if students qualify Small classes for better learning Full-time and Part-time, Day and Evening schedules available Cosmetology Our Cosmetology training will teach you what is on the runways today in cutting, designing, coloring, hair additions and texture services. From day one, you will begin to perform hands on in workshops. Throughout the cosmetology program, you will also learn the latest American and Europeaon techniques. Spa Education • Become an Esthetician • Complete in 6 months • Learn Facials, Skin Care, Dermalogica Products, Make-up, Massage and Full Waxing • New, State of the Art facilities • Full or Part-Time • Days or Evenings • Government Financial Aid (if qualified) • Fully accredited Classes Include Hair Cutting and Styling Hair Coloring with the newest organic formulations Chemical perming and straighting systems Organic Hair Care Products Nail Care Skin Care Photo Session Training for Magazine and Movie Work Salon Business Management Salon Ownership Training Self Esteem Training Client Consultation Hair Repairing Organic Treatment Extensions for more length and fullness Exposure to Top Artists At John Amico we host our own National Convention where hundreds of top stylists from around the world are invited. The Convention is close to our Campus so students are actively involved in all aspects of the classes and workshops. There are many career options that are available other than working in spas or salons. You can be a representative or trainer for a manufacturer, or work as a writer or consultant to the industry. You can enjoy the pleasures of travel through choosing an appropriate career, or even be a stylist on a cruise ship! Additional Courses are available for Cosmetology Instructors and Advanced Continuing Education Credits for Licensed Professionals. After Graduation Each year the John Amico Hair Care Company takes hundreds of professionals on a 7-Day Educational Cruise to the Caribbean, which is another exciting aspect to expand their education. We offer student graduates a complimentary invitation to continue their education at our annual national convention Chicago-Chicago. We also offer monthly continuing education classes. Plus, graduates are invited to participate in semi annual photo sessions to potentially have their work published nationally and internationally in stylebooks, trade publications and consumer magazines. Contact us for information on training at John Amico's School of Hair Design for a career with Security, Recognition and a Great Future!
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Tricoci University of Beauty Culture

530 East North Avenue
Glendale Heights, IL 60139
Program: Cosmetology

Tricoci University of Beauty Culture (Tricoci University) has built a school culture around professionalism and inclusion. It starts from our staff setting the example of professionalism, reinforced through our standards and core Tricoci University of Beauty Culture (Tricoci University) has built a school culture around professionalism and inclusion. It starts from our staff setting the example of professionalism, reinforced through our standards and core values as an organization, and exercised by students through a number of extra-curricular activities, including four distinct student teams: Retail Team, TLC Team, Style Squad and Student Council. Plus, we also encourage team work and inclusion through a myriad of assignments and positive energy exercises. We believe that students learn best (and staff works best) if their able to have fun, feel supported and have an encouraging environment.
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University of Spa and Cosmetology Arts

University of Spa and Cosmetology Arts 2913 West White Oaks Drive
Springfield, IL 62704
Program: Cosmetology

Welcome The University of Spa & Cosmetology Arts (USCA) offers you a state-of-the-art learning environment with fully equipped classrooms and superior instructors. Our students learn in an atmosphere of professionalism and graduate Welcome The University of Spa & Cosmetology Arts (USCA) offers you a state-of-the-art learning environment with fully equipped classrooms and superior instructors. Our students learn in an atmosphere of professionalism and graduate knowing they have been trained to meet the highest standards of their profession. Let us help cultivate the artist in you! About Us Our Mission The mission of USCA is to provide our students with the knowledge and training necessary for their chosen program of cosmetology, esthiology, nail technology or teaching. By learning in an atmosphere of professionalism and excellence, USCA students will build a foundation to help prepare them for a successful and satisfying career. We also strive to teach teamwork and respect as well as emphasize the need for continued personal and professional growth in order to meet the highest standards of their profession. Facility & Equipment USCA is located in a new facility that was designed to promote learning and practice of professional skills, in Springfield's very busy west side, near Veterans Parkway and Wabash Avenue. Our students have the advantage of spacious, professionally designed clinic areas and quiet classrooms, with the latest equipment for all areas of study. The student equipment and textbooks are up-to-date, and provide the student with everything they will need for their course of study. The usual class size averages 18 students per instructor. Free parking is provided for students and clients. Accreditation & Memberships USCA is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts & Sciences (NACCAS), a nationally recognized agency for private cosmetology schools. USCA is approved by the Department of Education for participation in federal Title IV student financial aid programs, including PellGrants and Family Federal Education Loans. USCA is licensed by the Illinois Department of Professional Regulation to operate as a cosmetology school offering cosmetology, esthiology and nail education. USCA is a member of the Illinois Association of Cosmetology Schools (IACS), the American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS), the International Chain Salon Association (ICSA) and the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce. Enrollment Procedures Are you ready to begin? If you are interested in enrolling or in visiting the school before you make your decision, you should contact us to arrange a visit. An interview with the school's admissions and financial aid counselor is recommended. If you submit an enrollment application by mail, you will be contacted so a visit can be arranged. Programs All programs include Theory (classroom study and discussion), Practical (applying your knowledge by practicing your skills), and Clinic (working on clients in a salon-typesetting to use your skills in a learning process). Cosmetology Explore the latest styles and techniques of hair cutting and styling, skin care, make-up, nail care, haircolor, perming, ethnic hair design, as well as business management and building a clientele. Esthiology Along with skin care training that will include skin analysis, treatment and facial techniques, you will learn the skillful and artistic application of cosmetics, healthful and healing body treatments and business practice knowledge. Nail Technology Manicuring and pedicuring are just the beginning. You will also learn nail care, application of a variety of artificial nail systems, as well as basic nail art techniques and skills to help you develop a clientele that will lead to a successful career. Instructors Training These courses are designed to prepare you to effectively pass along your professional skills and knowledge to future beauty professionals, with instruction in basic principles of teaching, psychology, business experience and supervised teaching experiences.
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