Questions to Ask When Comparing the Best Cosmetology Schools in California
With so many cosmetology programs in California, which do you choose? Students must evaluate their goals and what they want from their cosmetology program to determine the best fit.
Bellus Academy is a leader in the beauty school industry, offering a wide range of programs, including cosmetology, that equip students and graduates to succeed. Here, we discuss questions to ask when comparing the best cosmetology schools in California.
What Programs are Available?
Students want a school that offers the programs they need to develop the right skills. Students can enroll in a variety of programs at Bellus Academy, including:
Our students learn a wide range of techniques and use the latest equipment for training. Bellus Academy prepares students for success alongside cosmetology education by offering fundamental business knowledge. Each student receives an equipment kit with the professional tools needed to succeed. We also have a student salon and spa at each campus, where students can practice what they learn in the classroom with real clients.
Is the Program Accredited?
An accredited program gives students peace of mind about the quality of training they receive. As an industry leader in beauty schools, we offer programs accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences. We also hold memberships with various organizations, including the American Association of Cosmetology Schools, and the California Association of Private Postsecondary Schools.
How Experienced Are the Instructors?
Experienced and licensed instructors are skilled in the competencies students need to thrive in cosmetology and know some of the best ways to teach them. Our team of award-winning instructors has years of experience in cosmetology as teachers and real working professionals, which gives students unique insights into how to work in the industry.
How Long Does It Take to Complete the Program?
The time it takes to complete a program differs at each school. For example, the duration of the cosmetology program at Bellus Academy depends on the state. In California, students require 1,000 hours of combined classroom instruction and hands-on learning. This takes about seven months to complete for day classes and 11 months for night classes.
Is There an Online Component to the Programs?
Online learning can enhance the flexibility of your education. Bellus Academy takes a hybrid approach to learning. Students complete their coursework both online and in person. When students enroll in our cosmetology school, we provide them with an iPad for completing much of their coursework. We also include in-person learning at our student salon and spa, where students can practice professionally with real clients.
Do You Have Flexible Schedules?
Flexible schedules make obtaining an education easier. Students can take either day or night courses to complete their cosmetology education. At our California campuses in Poway, Chula Vista, and El Cajon, day courses run Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Night courses take place Monday through Friday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Is Financial Aid Available?
Access to financial aid can make pursuing education more accessible for students. We offer financial aid to those who qualify from federal, state, and private agencies. Students can also receive combination assistance, which gives you more than one type of financial aid assistance. We have a financial aid representative at each campus to assist students with the application process. Students must fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to apply for financial aid.
Bellus Academy also offers military benefits and scholarships to students who qualify. These include:
- Twilight Scholarship
- High School Scholarship
- June Scholarship
- Military Scholarship
- May Scholarship
- Alumni Scholarship
- Re-enroll Scholarship
Do You Assist With Job Placement?
A top-level cosmetology school helps students find opportunities for work after graduation. Students can receive assistance through the career services department at Bellus Academy, available to all. Each campus has a career services team member with whom students can meet one-on-one to seek advice about job opportunities. We have connections with various salons, spas, and manufacturers who are always looking to hire our graduates and display their open roles on our job boards. We speak with students about their career goals and use this information to help them find employment in their areas of interest.
We also help with resume development and complete mock interviews.
You’ll Find California’s In-Demand Cosmetology Programs at Bellus Academy
Students looking to enter the field of cosmetology can turn to the licensed and experienced instructors at Bellus Academy. We offer courses throughout California, including Poway, Chula Vista, and El Cajon. To learn more about our cosmetology programs and the best cosmetology schools, contact us or apply today.
