Barbering or Cosmetology? Well, Why Not Both?
If you’re looking for an education that caters to your creativity and passion for people, barbering or cosmetology may be for you. These career fields leverage artistic expression to help clients feel beautiful and build confidence. The dual licensing program at Bellus Academy campuses in Chula Vista and Poway, CA, allows students to explore both paths while building a strong skill foundation. Here, we explain why our Barbering Cosmetology program is a great choice for students seeking a career in either field.
Cosmetology or Barbering?
Before choosing a beauty school program, it may be helpful to understand what each career path entails. Cosmetology and barbering are similar fields and frequently overlap, though a few key differences set them apart. Knowing these differences is invaluable when deciding where to invest your education.
What Is Cosmetology?
Cosmetology is the science of beauty. This field covers everything related to personal beauty, including hair care, skin treatments, makeup, and nail design. Some cosmetologists choose to specialize in just one area of cosmetology, such as hair styling or manicures. Others offer comprehensive services that covers all aspects to help clients look and feel their best.
What Is Barbering?
Unlike cosmetology, barbering doesn’t emphasize skin or nail care. Instead, it takes an in-depth look at hair and grooming. Barbers are experts in many styles, including fades, crops, and pixies. They may also work with facial hair. Instead of chemical treatments and curling irons, their go-to tools include shears, clippers, and texturizing sprays to achieve the appearances clients want.
Learn Both in Our Barbering Cosmetology Program
Gain an advanced skillset and set yourself apart by learning both Barbering and Cosmetology.The Barbering Cosmetology program at the Poway and Chula Vista campuses of Bellus Academy combines both into a single, 1,800-hour program. Students learn to perform a wide variety of services related to both fields. After graduation, they’re prepared to take both licensing exams in California. This program is an excellent choice for students who know they want to enter the beauty industry with the skills to provide both barbering and cosmetology services. Through our program, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Explore both fields and learn more about your interests.
- Develop a diverse skillset or discover where you want to specialize.
- Strengthen your future career with a broader skill base.
- Increase your earning potential by offering a full-service salon menu.
- Expand your reach with a larger and more diverse clientele base.
- Qualify for a wider variety of career opportunities after graduation.
Barbering Cosmetology students learn from award-winning licensed instructors. They also spend time in the supervised student salon and spa, gaining hands-on, client-facing experience under the supervision and guidance of a licensed instructor. Here, they practice the use of industry equipment, products, and techniques, preparing them to provide high-quality service in their careers of choice.
The Business Side of Beauty
In addition to foundational barbering and cosmetology skills, Bellus Academy also introduces students to the business aspects of the beauty industry. Our program covers a variety of topics related to owning and running a company in the modern market, including:
- Retail product sales
- Sales techniques
- Financial management
- Client retention
- Social media marketing
- Branding
With this knowledge, students are better positioned for success in their chosen industry. Whether sharing styles on Instagram, marketing a product line, or opening their own barber shop or salon, students will have the tools they need to compete. Even those who don’t plan on business ownership can benefit from developing a more complete understanding of how the industry works and may discover new opportunities along the way.
An Exceptional Cosmetology and Barbering Education
If you are seeking a beauty school in the San Diego, CA, area, consider learning at Bellus Academy. We are among the few fully accredited beauty schools in our region. Courses are offered in a hybrid online model, providing diverse ways to learn. In addition, our licensed instructors have earned awards and recognition for the high-quality education they offer, including:
- WELLA Beauty Vision Award finalists
- Intercoiffure Top 20 Educator finalists
- Exceptional Educator Award Career Education Review
Instructors are also working professionals and entrepreneurs who may have their own businesses and lines of beauty products. This allows them to teach from experience. Students gain the benefit of real-world insights from instructors who understand the industry first-hand.
The Bellus Academy difference doesn’t end at graduation, either. Our instructors and student career services team work closely with graduates to help them pursue career opportunities. You’ll have our support to build your portfolio, create a resume and showcase your proven abilities – all of which can help you find a job after earning your license. We also have financial aid opportunities for those who qualify.
Start Learning at Bellus Academy
If you are curious about careers in barbering or cosmetology, now is the time to start learning. The Barbering Cosmetology program at Bellus Academy is available at campuses in Chula Vista and Poway, CA. Call 888-990-7094 to learn more or apply now.