If you’re dreaming of a future in the beauty industry, you’ve likely come across two major routes to licensure: attending an accredited beauty school or pursuing an apprenticeship. Both paths can lead to a career as a licensed cosmetologist, barber, esthetician, nail technician, or hairstylist, but they offer very different experiences, timelines, and professional outcomes.
In Utah, the beauty industry is thriving, and demand for qualified professionals remains high. Whether you want to specialize in skincare, hair, nails, or full-service cosmetology, your decision about how to start your training can significantly affect your skills, speed to licensure, and future career opportunities.
So how do you choose between an apprenticeship and beauty school? Let’s break down the differences, pros and cons, and what industry professionals are saying.
What Is a Beauty Apprenticeship?
A beauty apprenticeship is a state-approved training program where you learn under the supervision of a licensed professional in a salon, spa, or barbershop. Instead of attending a formal school, you complete your training through hands-on, real-world experience in the workplace.
In Utah, apprenticeships must be registered with the Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL) and must meet the same hour requirements as beauty schools. For example, cosmetology apprenticeships must meet the 1,600-hour requirement, just like traditional schools.
What Is an Accredited Beauty School?
An accredited beauty school is a state-licensed institution that provides structured classroom instruction, hands-on practice, and professional development. These schools follow a curriculum approved by Utah’s DOPL and often go beyond minimum licensure requirements to include advanced techniques, product training, and business education.
Beauty schools must meet strict standards for education, sanitation, instructor qualifications, and curriculum, and many are accredited by national organizations like NACCAS (National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences).
Side-by-Side Comparison: Apprenticeship vs. Beauty School
Feature | Beauty School | Apprenticeship |
|---|---|---|
Structure | Structured classes, guided practice, exams
| On-the-job training, mentorship by a licensed pro |
Hours Required | 1,600 (Cosmetology), 1200 (Esthetics), etc. | Same hour requirements as schools |
Timeline | 12-18 months (varies by program) | May take longer depending on salon availability |
Supervision | Licensed instructors in a school environment | Licensed professionals in salons or shops |
Cost | Tuition required, but Federal financial aid is often available | Costs vary, but Federal financial aid is not available |
Financial Aid | Federal grants, loans, and scholarships available | Not eligible for federal financial aid |
Career Preparation | Business skills, portfolio building, competitions, and technical skill building | More limited exposure to theory or advanced techniques |
Licensure Exam Prep | Built-in exam prep and mock boards | Varies by salon; may need to self-study |
Networking | Connect with peers, instructors, guest artists, alumni, and multiple salon owners | One-on-one with mentor, limited professional exposure |
Job Placement Support | Career services are often provided | No formal job placement |
Accreditation | Meets established standards | Does not apply |
Pros and Cons of Attending Beauty School
Pros
- Structured Curriculum: You’ll learn theory, techniques, business skills, and sanitation in a consistent, organized format.
- Dedicated Instructors: Trained educators help guide your development every step of the way.
- Financial Aid Options: Accredited schools can offer access to Federal Title IV, including educational loans & Pell Grants.
- Mock Boards & Exam Prep: Many schools integrate test prep into the program so you’re ready for testing, which leads to licensure.
- Professional Development: You’ll get exposure to trends, competitions, advanced classes, and sometimes even internships or externships.
- Salon-Like Environment: Student salons give you client-facing experience in a safe learning space.
- Faster Timeline: Beauty school is often the quicker route to becoming licensed.
Cons
- Tuition Costs: School can be expensive, although aid may offset costs.
- Set Schedules: Beauty school requires regular attendance, which may be hard for those with jobs or families.
- Not Paid During Training: Unlike some apprenticeships, you won’t earn income while attending school.
Pros and Cons of Apprenticeships
Pros
- Real-World Learning: You’ll work with real clients in a real salon from day one.
- Flexible Schedule: Apprenticeships can sometimes be tailored around your availability.
- One-on-One Mentorship: Personalized instruction from experienced professionals.
Cons
- Limited Exposure to Theory: You may not receive in-depth education on anatomy, sanitation, or business.
- Longer Timeline: Because you’re working around a salon’s schedule, training can take more time.
- Licensing Exam Prep Varies: Some apprentices find they need extra prep before exams.
- No Federal Financial Aid: Apprenticeships are not eligible for Federal Financial Aid.
- Quality Varies: Your education is only as strong as your mentor and the salon’s commitment.
- Limited Professional Network: You won’t get the same peer community or access to career events as in beauty school.
The Long-Term Career Impact
When choosing between beauty school and an apprenticeship, it’s important to think beyond licensure. Your education is the foundation of your future career, and the quality of that education may impact:
- Your first job in the beauty industry
- Your confidence with clients
- Opportunities for advancement
- Becoming gainfully employed
How to Decide What’s Right for You
Here are some questions to help you evaluate which path might be best:
What’s your learning style?
- Prefer structure and visual/auditory learning? Beauty school might be a better fit.
- Learn best by doing and assisting others? Apprenticeship could work well.
How quickly do you want to get licensed?
- Want to start working ASAP? Beauty school is typically faster.
- Have flexibility with time and income? Apprenticeships may offer more freedom.
Utah Requirements at a Glance (as of August 2025)
Program | Required Hours (School & Apprenticeship) |
|---|---|
Cosmetology | 1,600 hours |
Barbering | 1,000 hours |
Esthetics | 600 hours |
Master Esthetics | 1,200 hours |
Nail Technician | 300 hours |
Hair Design | 1,200 hours |
Your Future, Your Choice
Both apprenticeships and beauty school programs can lead to a rewarding career in Utah’s growing beauty industry. The path you choose should align with your personal needs, professional goals, and preferred learning style.
That said, many beauty industry leaders—and even salon owners—view beauty school as the stronger foundation for long-term success. With its structured curriculum, exam prep, and exposure to a wide range of skills, beauty school can prepare you not just to pass the licensing exam, but to thrive in a competitive industry.
As Utah continues to grow its presence in the national beauty scene, making the right choice for your education is more important than ever. Whether you’re pursuing a career in downtown Salt Lake or being a stylist in a small town salon, start with the education that will set you up for success.
Explore Your Options with the Utah Beauty School Association
At the Utah Beauty School Association (UBSOA), we represent accredited schools across the state that are committed to student success and industry excellence. Visit our website to:
- Find accredited schools near you
- Learn about financial aid opportunities
- Compare programs and specialties
- Ask questions and get career advice
Your beauty career starts with the right training. Make your move today—and shape a future you’re proud of.
