How Long Does Cosmetology School Take?

If you’ve ever considered a career in beauty, you’ve probably wondered: How long is cosmetology school? Choosing the right program is an important step, but understanding the timeline helps you plan your future. At Ms. Roberts Beauty Academy, we know that many students juggle jobs, family responsibilities, and other commitments, so we make the path to becoming a licensed cosmetologist as clear and flexible as possible.

This guide will walk you through what to expect when going to school for cosmetology and how long it takes. You’ll learn about the typical training hours, factors that affect your schedule, and how to get the most out of your education.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Cosmetologist?

So, how long does it take to go to cosmetology school? In most states, including Illinois, students are required to complete a certain number of training hours before they can take the licensing exam. These hours usually range from 1,200 to 1,500, depending on the state’s requirements.

At Ms. Roberts Beauty Academy in Hillside, Illinois, our Cosmetology Program prepares students to complete the necessary hours while gaining valuable hands-on experience. For a full-time student, finishing beauty school can take about 12 to 15 months. For part-time students, the timeline may extend to 18 months or longer, depending on their schedule.

At the end of the day, how long cosmetology school is will depend on the program you attend and the pace you choose.

Factors That Affect How Long Beauty School Takes

Not every student’s journey looks the same. Several factors can influence the time it takes to graduate from cosmetology school:

1. Full-Time vs. Part-Time Enrollment

How long your beauty school program takes will depend on whether you decide to attend full-time or part-time:

• Full-Time: Students attending during the day, several days a week, usually finish faster—often within a year.
• Part-Time: Perfect for students balancing jobs or families, but it can extend the timeline. Evening or weekend options may take closer to 18–24 months.

2. Program Structure

Some schools have flexible schedules, while others only offer traditional class times. At Ms. Roberts Beauty Academy, we provide day and evening classes, giving students more freedom to complete their hours at a pace that fits their lives.

3. State Requirements

Since licensing requirements vary by state, the number of required hours can make your program shorter or longer. Always check the state board guidelines where you plan to work.

4. Attendance and Commitment

Consistent attendance is key. Missing classes can delay your graduation. Staying focused and committed helps you stay on track.

What You’ll Learn in Cosmetology School

When you hear that cosmetology school takes a year or more, you may wonder why so many hours are needed. The truth is, cosmetology covers a wide range of skills that require both theory and practice.

Students learn:

• Hair Care: Cutting, coloring, chemical treatments, and styling for different textures.
• Skin Care: Facials, makeup application, and basic skin treatments.
• Nail Services: Manicures, pedicures, nail enhancements, and safety procedures.
• Business Skills: Salon management, customer service, and marketing essentials.

By practicing on real clients under licensed supervision, students build confidence and prepare for real-world salon work. This hands-on training is what makes cosmetology education so valuable.

Comparing Cosmetology to Other Beauty Programs

Sometimes people confuse cosmetology school with shorter programs. So, how long is beauty school if you’re only studying one area?

• Nail Technology Programs: Often shorter, around 350 to 600 hours.
• Esthetics Programs: Usually 600 to 750 hours.
• Instructor Training: Designed for licensed professionals who want to teach, often requiring 500 to 1,000 hours depending on experience.

Cosmetology programs are longer than single-track programs because they include multiple areas, preparing you for a versatile career.

Balancing Life While Attending Cosmetology School

A common question future students ask about cosmetology is—How long does it take if I have a job or kids? The good news is that many schools, including Ms. Roberts Beauty Academy, provide flexible scheduling options to help you balance school with your other responsibilities.

• Day Classes: Best for those who can commit full-time.
• Evening Classes: Great for people who work during the day or have family obligations.
• Part-Time Paths: Allow you to move at a slower pace while still making progress toward your dream career.

Planning ahead, setting aside study time, and having support from family and friends all make the journey smoother.

The Rewards of Completing Cosmetology School

While it takes commitment and time, completing cosmetology school is worth it. Once you’ve fulfilled your required hours and passed your licensing exam, you’ll open the door to a wide range of career opportunities, including:

• Working in a hair salon or spa
• Becoming a freelance stylist or makeup artist
• Opening your own beauty business
• Specializing in areas like textured hair, braids, or skincare
• Teaching future cosmetologists as an instructor

The beauty industry continues to grow, offering stability and creative freedom for those who commit to their education.

So, How Long Does It Take to Go to Cosmetology School?

On average, most students finish between 12 and 18 months, depending on their schedule and state requirements. While it may feel like a big commitment, the time spent in school sets you up for a lifetime career in the beauty industry.

If you’ve been worrying about how long cosmetology school or beauty school can take, you should know that it’s an investment in yourself. The time you spend learning today builds the skills, confidence, and creativity you’ll use tomorrow.

Start Your Cosmetology Journey with Ms. Roberts Beauty Academy

At Ms. Roberts Beauty Academy in Hillside, Illinois, we’ve been training future beauty professionals since 1960. With flexible schedules, affordable tuition, and hands-on learning, we help students of all backgrounds turn their passion for beauty into a career.

Call us today at (708) 649-9088 to learn more about enrollment, scheduling options, and how you can start your journey toward becoming a licensed cosmetologist.