Hairstyling
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
HAIRSTYLING
PROGRAM LENGTH: 2-3 years
GRADES: 10-12
The Hairstyling pathway is for students who want to graduate with real salon-ready skills while working toward an Arizona state license in hairstyling. It’s a two-year program that requires a high daily time commitment so students can complete the required training hours before graduation.
Important Student Readiness information:
Students must be 16 years old
Students must have completed 10 high school credits (including 2 English credits)
By the end of the program, students will learn skills in:
- Sanitation, sterilization, safety, and state rules
- Hair care and scalp/hair analysis
- Cutting, styling, and finishing techniques
- Hair coloring and chemical services (as allowed and trained)
- Hair removal basics (as applicable)
- Professional habits: client communication, consultation, timing, and cleanliness
Course Pathway Map
Students are introduced to hairstyling topics including sterilization and sanitation procedures, state rules and regulations, hair care, hair styling, hair coloring, and hair removal.
Instruction includes both classroom learning and practical lab experience. Students work toward qualifying to take the Arizona hairstyling state board exam.
Students review academic and practical knowledge related to hairstyling. The course provides advanced skill set training and employment preparation for a hairstyling career.
Topics include advanced sterilization and sanitation, hair care, haircuts, hair styling, and hair removal. This program prepares students to test for the Arizona hairstyling license upon successful completion and passing state examinations.
Students design and complete a comprehensive project using project management fundamentals. They conduct research on a chosen topic and produce a final report, portfolio, or presentation demonstrating mastery of hairstyling and aesthetic concepts.
The course emphasizes professional skill application, innovation, and readiness for real-world hairstyling or aesthetic work.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding course offerings, requirements, and descriptions, please refer to the official course catalog.
Certificates & Licenses
Students work toward qualifying for the Arizona Barbering & Cosmetology Board Hairstyling License. Licensure requires meeting state requirements and passing the required exams.
| Certificate Name | Class / Year Obtained | Type | Purpose / Eligibility | Information Covered |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona Hairstyling License | Hairstyling II | State Licensing Exam | Required for professional licensure as a hairstylist in Arizona | Theory, state laws, sanitation, safety, and practical hairstyling skills |
Career, Salary, and Growth Opportunities
Entry
Median
Experienced
NATIONAL ANNUAL SALARY
2020
2022
2024
AZ MEDIAN SALARY GROWTH
2024
2034
PROJECTED JOB OUTLOOK
Hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists earn a median pay of about $35,000 per year nationally. In Arizona, median pay for hairstylists has increased from about $27,000 in 2020 to roughly $35,200 in 2024, reflecting steady wage growth as demand for personal care services continues. Entry-level earnings typically start near $30,000, while top earners can exceed $60,000 depending on specialization and clientele. Employment is projected to grow from about 713,000 jobs in 2024 to 762,800 by 2034, with roughly 89,100 openings each year.
For students who love creativity, precision, and connecting with clients, hairstyling offers a clear path to in-demand, satisfying work.
*Statistics sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and Arizona workforce projections.
Our Facilities
Students train in a full-service cosmetology salon designed to mirror a professional hairstyling environment. The space supports practical learning in haircutting, styling, coloring, and salon services using industry-standard equipment and professional products.
Our facilities feature:
Multiple hairstyling stations in a salon-style learning environment
Professional hair dryers and styling equipment
Pedicure chairs for expanded salon service training
Manicure stations for nail service experience
Full set of tools required for haircutting, coloring, and styling services
Professional salon products from Redken
This salon-style environment allows students to develop technical skills while practicing client service in a real-world setting.
Pathfinder Salon
Our student-run Pathfinder Salon provides services from facials to hair coloring and styling. Students in the Hairstyling Pathway gain experience in a professional, client-focused environment under the guidance of licensed educators and industry professionals. The salon helps students earn the required service hours for their licenses while developing the confidence and skills needed for modern salon work.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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No. Students graduate with training hours and preparation, but licensure depends on meeting state requirements and passing state exams.
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This pathway requires at least five class periods per day for two years.
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No. Many graduates work in salons, but others move into bridal/event styling, beauty retail, or independent work later.
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Consistency, strong sanitation habits, attention to detail, coachability, and a willingness to practice techniques until they’re clean and reliable.
Our Industry Partners
We collaborate with leading industry professionals to ensure our students gain real-world experience, leading to direct pathways into high-demand careers. We are proud to work alongside organizations that invest in the future of our students.
