If you’re dreaming of a career in beauty—whether it’s cosmetology, hairstyling, esthetics, nails, or barbering—your first big decision is where to go to school. With so many options, it’s tempting to choose the school that’s closest or cheapest. But before you commit, there’s one critical factor you shouldn’t overlook: accreditation.
Choosing an accredited beauty school isn’t just about checking a box. It’s about building a strong foundation for your future career. At the Utah Beauty School Owners Association (UBSOA), we believe accreditation is one of the most powerful indicators of a school’s quality, professionalism, and long-term value to students. In this post, we’ll explore exactly what accreditation is, why it matters, and how it can lead to better job opportunities, higher earning potential, and a more successful future in beauty.
What Is Accreditation?
Accreditation is a formal recognition that a school meets specific standards of educational quality and integrity. Beauty schools in the U.S. can be accredited by agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, such as:
National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences (NACCAS)
Council on Occupational Education (COE)
These accrediting bodies review schools regularly, assessing curriculum, facilities, teacher qualifications, student outcomes, and more. Accreditation is not a one-time event—it’s an ongoing process that ensures schools maintain high standards over time.
In Utah, accredited beauty schools are recognized as serious, professional institutions dedicated to student success. When you attend an accredited school, you’re entering a program that’s meets qualified accreditation standards.
1. Better Job Opportunities After Graduation
Graduating from an accredited beauty school can open more doors than you might think.
Employers Communicate with Accredited Schools
Salons, spas, and medical esthetics offices often have existing relationships with accredited schools. Why? Because they know their graduates have received consistent, regulated educational training. When you’re competing for jobs, especially in higher-end or specialty salons, your education can set you apart.
Accredited Schools are held to standards for Students to Pass the Licensing Exam
To work legally in Utah, beauty professionals must pass state licensing exams. Accredited schools structure their programs around helping students prepare for and pass those exams. From sanitation practices to technical skills to theory, an accredited curriculum ensures you meet the standards required by the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL).
2. Access to Federal Financial Aid
One of the most immediate and practical benefits of choosing an accredited school is *financial aid eligibility.
The U.S. Department of Education only provides financial assistance—like Pell Grants, federal student loans, and work-study opportunities—to students attending accredited institutions. If you need help paying for school, accreditation is the key that unlocks funding.
Non-accredited schools may offer payment plans or private financing, but they lack access to this broad network of federal support. That can put unnecessary pressure on you during school and after graduation.
*financial aid is only available to those who qualify
3. Career Advancement and Long-Term Growth
A beauty career can be more than a job—it can be a long-term, thriving profession.
Professional Credibility
Beauty professionals with strong educational backgrounds often move more quickly into leadership roles. Whether you want to become a salon manager, educator, brand representative, or open your own business, your schooling becomes part of your resume.
Continuing Education and Specialized Training
If you ever want to pursue advanced education—like medical esthetics, master barbering, or educator training—many programs require transcripts from an accredited school. In fact, accreditation can be the ticket to continuing your education later and branching into other roles in the beauty industry.
4. Higher Educational Standards and Safety Training
Beauty is a hands-on industry where skill and safety go hand in hand. An accredited school must meet strict curriculum standards that emphasize both technical excellence and public health.
Sanitation, Hygiene, and State Laws
In today’s world, cleanliness and hygiene are more important than ever. Accredited schools ensure that students are trained in sanitation, disinfection, and client safety protocols that align with state laws. This includes training for handling tools properly, preventing infections, and ensuring a safe environment for both clients and professionals.
You’re not just learning how to style hair or perform facials—you’re learning how to protect your clients’ health, your own wellbeing, and your professional license.
Curriculum You Can Trust
The curriculum at an accredited school has been carefully evaluated and approved. That means:
- You’re not wasting time on outdated methods.
- You’re learning from licensed, qualified instructors.
- You’re gaining real-world experience in a clinic setting.
When you graduate, you’ll know you’ve completed a program that equips you for career readiness—not just a piece of paper.
5. Stronger Student Support Services
Accredited schools are held to high standards not just in the classroom, but in how they support students. Many accredited beauty schools offer services like:
- Career counseling
- Job placement assistance
- Tutoring and mentorship
- Academic advising
They’re invested in your future, and it shows. Schools without accreditation may lack the resources to support students in this way.
6. A Community of Professionals
When you attend an accredited school in Utah, you’re not just a student—you’re part of a recognized network of professionals.
Many schools that are members of the Utah Beauty School Owners Association (UBSOA) collaborate with salons, spas, product brands, and industry organizations. This creates opportunities for:
- Guest educators and celebrity stylists
- Field trips and salon visits
- Networking events and career fairs
These connections matter. They can lead to mentorships, jobs, and lifelong friendships that shape your future.
7. Protection for Your Investment
Education is a big investment of your time, money, and energy. Accreditation protects that investment in several ways:
- Transferability: If life changes and you need to switch schools, credits from an accredited school are more likely to transfer.
- Accountability: Accredited schools must meet performance benchmarks. If too many students fail exams or drop out, the school risks losing its accreditation. That means they have strong incentive to help you succeed.
- Student Rights: Accredited schools are more transparent about tuition, refunds, graduation rates, and student outcomes. They must comply with strict federal and state regulations.
If something goes wrong, you have recourse. That’s not always the case with non-accredited programs.
What If a School Isn’t Accredited?
A non-accredited beauty school might still offer training, but it can come with concerns to consider:
- You may not be eligible for federal financial aid.
- Your education might not meet licensing requirements.
- You might not be able to transfer hours later.
- Employers may not appreciate your certificate of completion.
- You could end up repeating coursework or paying more out of pocket to make up for it.
It’s simply not worth gambling on your future.
How to Check Accreditation Status
Before you enroll in any program, take the time to verify a school’s accreditation status. Here’s how:
- Ask the school directly: They should be transparent about their accrediting agency and status. It can also be found in the schools catalog.
- Check with the accrediting body: Visit websites like naccas.org or council.org to see a list of accredited institutions.
- Review with the U.S. Department of Education: Their searchable database lists all recognized postsecondary institutions.
In Utah, you can also contact UBSOA or check our website for a list of member schools that meet accreditation standards.
Why It Matters in Utah
Utah has a vibrant and growing beauty industry. From the thriving salon scene in Salt Lake City to resort spas in Park City and independent estheticians statewide, beauty is big business here.
Choosing an accredited beauty school in Utah ensures that you’re being trained to meet state-specific licensing and safety requirements. Plus, you’ll be part of a state-wide community that values:
- Excellence in education
- Student empowerment
- Industry innovation
UBSOA works hard to advocate for high-quality beauty education and protect the careers of future professionals like you. When you choose a UBSOA member school that’s accredited, you’re setting yourself up for long-term success.
Your Future Is Worth It
Starting beauty school is exciting—but it’s also a serious step toward your future. Don’t sell yourself short by choosing a program that cuts corners.
Accreditation is more than a status. It’s a commitment to quality, a path to licensure, and a door to greater opportunity. It ensures that your education is safe, your training is respected, and your career is supported from day one.
At UBSOA, we stand behind accredited schools because we know they produce confident, capable, and career-ready professionals.
Ready to Begin Your Beauty Career?
The Utah Beauty School Owners Association (UBSOA) is here to help you find the right accredited school for your goals. Whether you’re interested in cosmetology, esthetics, barbering, or nails, there’s a trusted program near you.
Learn more and explore our member schools at:
