Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Barber Schools in Green Bay, Kenosha, Madison, and Milwaukee.
Considering a career in barbering in Wisconsin?
We’ve compiled the best barber schools in Wisconsin to guide you.
Learn about programs that offer hands-on training, state licensing preparation, and excellent job placement rates.
Whether you’re a beginner or seeking advanced skills, this guide covers top schools to help you make an informed choice.
Milwaukee Area Technical College – Barber Program
The Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) offers a Barber Program that lays a solid foundation for aspiring barbers.
Key elements of the MATC Barber Program:
- In-depth Curriculum: The program includes courses in shampooing, scalp treatments, and hair cutting. It also covers shaving, facials, chemical relaxing, and business management.
- Hands-on Training: You get hands-on experience through practical sessions on haircutting, shaving, and hair color services.
- Program Duration: The program can be completed within 12-18 months.
- Digital Badges: Students can earn digital badges that signify their proficiency in various areas.
- Career Prospects: Graduates often find employment as self-employed barbers, instructors, or manufacturer’s representatives.
The Milwaukee Area Technical College ensures compliance with the standards set by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services. This program is well-rounded and equips students with the essential skills and confidence needed for professional success.
Mid-State Technical College – Barber Technologist Program
The Mid-State Technical College offers a Barber Technologist Program designed for flexibility and educational depth.
Highlights of the Mid-State Technical College Barber Program:
- Blended Learning: A part-time program with a mix of online and face-to-face classes.
- State Requirements: Meets the 1,000-hour state requirement for barbering licensure.
- Curriculum Focus: Includes traditional and modern cutting techniques, safe use of barber shop chemicals, and professional shaving methods.
- Program Cost: Estimated at $5,849.11 for the 2023/24 academic year, covering tuition, fees, books, and supplies.
- Financial Aid: Available for eligible students.
Led by experienced instructors, this program provides robust training to prepare you for state licensure and a successful career. It emphasizes hands-on learning through its on-campus salon.
Wisconsin Technical College System – Barber Technologist Technical Diploma
The Wisconsin Technical College System’s Barber Technologist Technical Diploma offers an affordable yet rigorous education in barbering.
Essential features of the Wisconsin Technical College System Barber Diploma:
- Comprehensive Program: Spanning 1,000 hours and two semesters, this program balances theoretical training with practical experience.
- State Board Exam Eligibility: Graduates are eligible to sit for the state board licensing exam.
- Tuition: Average annual tuition is $4,386, with additional financial aid and scholarships available.
- Extensive Network: The Wisconsin Technical College System comprises 16 public, two-year technical colleges.
With its strong focus on hands-on learning, this diploma program ensures you receive quality training to kickstart your career in barbering.
Gateway Technical College – Barber Technologist Program
The Gateway Technical College Barber Technologist Program provides a diversified curriculum aimed at equipping students with essential barbering skills.
Program components at Gateway Technical College:
- Varied Curriculum: Courses cover men’s haircutting techniques, microbiology, anatomy, physiology, and business management.
- Hands-on Experience: Students gain practical experience through client services, focusing on building speed and accuracy.
- Career Advancement: Additional certifications, such as a barber instructor, are available.
Students are thoroughly prepared for entry-level employment as licensed barbers, making this program an optimal choice for comprehensive training.
Madison College – Barbering Apprenticeship
Madison College’s Barbering Apprenticeship program combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction to prepare students for the barbering profession.
Critical aspects of Madison College’s program:
- On-the-Job Training: Students work a minimum of 32 hours per week under a licensed professional.
- Classroom Instruction: Complements work experience with 288 hours of classroom instruction over four semesters.
- Core Skills: Training includes chemical services, hair cutting, infection control, and styling.
- Program Cost: Approximately $1,394.24, offering a cost-effective route to licensure.
This apprenticeship program emphasizes practical experience and cost-effective learning, enabling students to become licensed barbers, managers, or small business owners.
By combining real-world training with structured education, you gain a solid foundation for a successful career in barbering.
Fox Valley Technical College – Barbering Apprentice Program
The Fox Valley Technical College offers a Barbering Apprentice Program that equips students with the skills needed for a successful barbering career.
Key program details:
- Blend of Instructional and Hands-On Training: The curriculum covers haircutting, shaving, hair and scalp disorder identification, and hair color services.
- Adherence to Codes: Ensures students follow Wisconsin administrative codes.
- Program Requirements: The 8-credit program necessitates employment in the barbering trade.
- Apprentice Contract: Students create an apprentice contract with the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services.
While financial aid is not available, the program’s rich blend of instruction and practical experience offers a solid foundation for aspiring barbers.
Paul Mitchell The School Milwaukee – Barbering Program
The Paul Mitchell The School Milwaukee offers a structured Barbering Program aimed at fostering skill development across various stages.
Highlights of the Paul Mitchell Barbering Program:
- Core to Creative Levels: The program starts with basics in hair cutting, grooming, and fundamentals, advancing to hands-on practice and eventually independent work on sophisticated techniques.
- Professional Kit and Learning Tools: Includes a comprehensive professional kit and access to cutting and coloring apps.
- Tuition: The program costs $12,555 and requires 1,000 hours.
- National Accreditation: Recognized for producing highly skilled barbers ready for the market.
As a nationally accredited program, it positions students for success in the growing barbering industry.
Academy of Beauty Professionals – Barbering Program
The Academy of Beauty Professionals in Madison offers a Barbering Program focused on accelerated, hands-on learning.
Salient features:
- Accelerated Learning: The program runs for 29 weeks, with a heavy emphasis on practical experience.
- Real Salon Environment: Students gain hands-on experience in a real salon/spa environment.
- Supportive Atmosphere: The school promotes an environment that encourages group discussion and self-expression.
- Career Paths: Graduates can pursue careers as licensed barbers, barber educators, or barbershop owners.
The Academy of Beauty Professionals provides a nurturing learning atmosphere, preparing students for a successful career in barbering.
What to Consider When Choosing a Barber School in Wisconsin
When selecting a barber school in Wisconsin, several factors must be considered to ensure you make the best choice for your career goals.
- Accreditation: Ensure the school is accredited and meets standards set by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Look for curriculum options that cover a wide range of barbering techniques and subjects, including business management and customer service.
- Practical Experience: Verify the school offers ample hands-on training opportunities in real-world settings to enhance learning outcomes.
- Financial Support: Check availability of financial aid and scholarships to make education more accessible.
- Job Placement Assistance: Research the school’s career support services, including job placement rates and partnerships with local salons and barbershops.
Barber Schools By State
Conclusion and Next Steps
Choosing the right barber school in Wisconsin sets the foundation for a thriving career in the grooming industry. Whether you prefer a structured program or an apprenticeship approach, these schools offer excellent pathways to becoming a skilled barber. Contact one of these schools today to start your journey to a stylish and rewarding career.