Many people might say you need to go to college after high School, but what does that really mean and what is considered college? You’re interested in beauty school, but does that apply? Is beauty school college?

The short answer is no, beauty school is not the same as a traditional college at a four-year institution, or even the same as a community college. Beauty schools are trade schools, sometimes also called vocational or technical schools. These schools are non-degree schools that can provide diplomas, certifications, or even associates degrees, depending on what type of trade program is completed. Trade schools can prepare people to work in a huge variety of careers, ranging from dental hygiene all the way to elevator repair!

Beauty School Versus Traditional College

There are many factors to consider when choosing your education after high school. Universities award degrees which can help people earn good positions in their field, but universities are usually extremely expensive and may not even offer a program that you are passionate about. Beauty schools can allow you the opportunity to get job training for a career you love and can make a good living with. Universities also frequently don’t teach job skills, but focus instead on academic learning, which can make finding employment after graduation challenging. Beauty school students spend tons of time learning by practicing on the salon floor, so the transition from student to stylist after graduation is often smooth!

Cosmetology, esthetics, and nail programs at beauty schools often cost significantly less money than a traditional college. Even an associates degree generally takes two full years to complete, let alone a bachelor’s degree which can take four or more years. Beauty school students often graduate in a year or less, depending on the schedule they select. On top of that, beauty school tuition usually costs a fraction of what a four year degree would cost. Beauty schools like Avalon even offer many financial aid options similar to a university or community college.

Making the Choice

How can you find out if a career in cosmetology, esthetics, or nails is right for you? Making the decision can be challenging, but touring the beauty school you’re interested can help you make up your mind. You can get a feel of the school, the students, and the staff to help you get an idea of what school will be like. Many different types of people can become successful beauty professionals, so make sure you talk with an admissions or career counselor at the beauty school so they can help you identify some of your traits that might make you a fantastic cosmetologist.

Deciding between college and any trade school can be challenging, especially if your parents or family aren’t expecting it. Everyone has different thoughts and ideas about beauty school and what it can do for you, so the best way to help people learn about the career you’re interested in is to bring them with you on your tour of the school. If your family or friends see you excited about your education at beauty school, it will be much easier for them to be supportive! If you need to give some reasons to attend cosmetology school, here’s a list of our top eight.

Explore Your Future Today

If you’re struggling to decide on your career path after high school, we can help you make a decision! Many visitors are able to determine right away if beauty school is right for them when they visit Avalon School of Cosmetology. It also helps most people decide which beauty school is the right one for them, since there are usually many options to choose from. Contact us to learn more about Avalon today, and we’ll set you up with a tour of our school!