How Long Does It Take To Become A Cosmetologist/Barber

If you’ve been thinking about starting a career in barbering, one of the first questions you probably have is: How long does it take to become a Cosmetologist/Barber?

At Renaissance Academie, students gain barbering skills through a 1,600-hour Cosmetology/Barber program, which goes beyond the barber-only requirement. This comprehensive education prepares students for both barbering and cosmetology services, giving graduates more flexibility in their careers.

What Does It Mean to “Become a Barber”?

Becoming a barber involves more than learning to cut hair. It’s a professional journey that includes classroom instruction, hands-on training, and passing state exams to earn your license.

Barbers specialize in men’s grooming services such as fades, clipper cuts, beard design, and straight-razor shaving. While cosmetologists focus on a wider range of hair, skin, and nail services, barbering emphasizes short hair, clipper work, and precision techniques.

Through Renaissance Academie’s Cosmetology/Barber program, students gain both technical and professional skills to work confidently in barbershops, salons, or as independent professionals.

Utah’s Training Requirements vs. Renaissance’s Program

At Renaissance Academie, students complete a 1,600-hour Cosmetology/Barber program, which goes beyond the minimum requirement. This additional training doesn’t just prepare students to meet state standards; it gives them a more comprehensive skill set that includes both barbering techniques and cosmetology fundamentals, including hair color, chemical services, skincare, and more.

This broader foundation allows graduates to offer a wider range of services, adapt to more professional opportunities, and build lasting careers in both barbershops and salons.

Important Update for 2026:

Utah’s licensing requirements are changing on January 1, 2026. The Basic Esthetician license will sunset, and several programs, including Barbering, will shift to updated hour and curriculum requirements. Renaissance Academie’s current 1,600-hour Cosmetology/Barber program already aligns with these upcoming state standards, making it a future-proof option for students beginning their training now

What You’ll Learn at Renaissance Academie

During your 1,600-hour Cosmetology/Barber program, you’ll study:

• Haircutting, styling, and shaving techniques
• Facial hair design and grooming
• Hair color, chemical services, and skincare
• Sanitation and safety practices
• Anatomy and physiology related to skin and hair
• Professional ethics and client communication
• Business principles and state law

Students who attend full-time typically finish the program in 12 to 18 months, while part-time students may take longer depending on attendance and scheduling.

What to Expect in Cosmetology/Barber School

If you’ve never attended a program like this before, here’s what to expect at Renaissance Academie:

• Hands-on training from the start: You’ll begin on mannequins and then work with real clients in the student salon under instructor supervision.
• Sanitation and safety: Cleanliness, disinfection, and proper setup are a major focus and required for state board exams.
• Barbering + cosmetology skills: In addition to fades and shaves, you’ll learn skincare and chemical services for a well-rounded skillset.
• Salon environment: Our student salon mirrors a professional setting, helping you build confidence.
• State board preparation: Instructors provide timed services, mock testing, and support to help you pass your exams.

All services in the student salon are performed by students under the supervision of licensed instructors.

Licensing Exams and the Next Steps

After completing your training, you’ll take the Utah state licensing exams:

• A written (theory) exam covering safety, sanitation, and barbering principles
• A practical exam demonstrating haircutting, shaving, and client protection skills

Once you pass both exams and your application is approved by Utah DOPL, you’ll be licensed and ready to take the next step in your journey.

A Typical Timeline to Start Working

Here’s a general timeline for students at Renaissance Academie:

• Month 0: Enroll in the Cosmetology/Barber program
• Months 1–18: Complete 1,600 hours of training
• Months 16–19: Take and pass your written and practical exams
• Months 18–20: Receive your license and begin your job search

If you attend part-time or have other commitments, your timeline may extend beyond 18 months.

Factors That Can Impact Your Timeline

Several factors can affect how quickly you finish school and get licensed in Utah:

• Schedule type: Full-time students finish faster than part-time students
• Attendance: Consistent attendance keeps you on track for on-time graduation
• Exam scheduling: Testing dates and processing times can add a few weeks after graduation
• Learning pace: Some students need extra time to build confidence in their practical skills

Renaissance Academie offers flexible scheduling to help students balance school with work, family, or other responsibilities.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of School

How well you use your time in school can shape your future career. Here are a few ways to make the most of your education at Renaissance Academie:

• Show up consistently. Missing hours can delay your graduation and licensing timeline.
• Treat every service like a real job. Professional habits start early.
• Ask for feedback. Your instructors are experienced professionals who want to see you succeed.
• Take advantage of extra practice. The more reps you get, the more confident you’ll be on exam day and with clients.
• Network with classmates and instructors. Many job opportunities come from connections made in school.
• Keep your end goal in mind. Whether you want to work in a barbershop, salon, rent a chair, or open your own business, this is your foundation.

Why Choosing the Right School Matters

Where you train can make a big difference in the type of career you can build. A barber-only program might get you licensed faster, but a Cosmetology/Barber program can help you develop a wider range of skills and prepare for more diverse job opportunities.

At Renaissance Academie, students benefit from:

• A 1,600-hour program that goes beyond the state’s barbering requirement
• Instructors with real-world experience
• Hands-on learning in a professional salon environment
• Flexible scheduling options

Explore our Cosmetology/Barber program to see if it’s the right fit for your goals.

What Happens After You Become Licensed

Once you’re licensed in Utah, you can work in a variety of settings. Many graduates work in barbershops or salons, rent their own chairs, or eventually open their own shops. Others expand into advanced education, men’s grooming, or mobile services.

Your license is just the beginning, and the real reward comes from growing your skills and building lasting client relationships over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I attend part-time?
A: Yes. Renaissance Academie offers flexible scheduling so you can balance training with other responsibilities.

Q: How soon after graduating can I start working?
A: Once you’ve passed the state exams and received your license, you can legally work in Utah as a barber or cosmetologist.

Start Your Journey at Renaissance Academie

Our 1,600-hour Cosmetology/Barber program provides broader training, helping students build both barbering and cosmetology skills. This opens more doors for your future career.

Curious about what it’s like to train in this program? Schedule a tour or connect with our admissions team to take the first step toward your future in Cosmetology/Barbering.