Arkansas Cosmetology Schools and Programs

Whether you are fresh out of high school or you are interested in making a career change, the cosmetology industry is a solid choice for you! There are literally dozens of cosmetology schools in Arkansas and no matter what your background is or what customers you would like to serve, there is a school in the state to meet your needs. We can be your direct connection to these schools (we have relationships with over 1,000 beauty schools nation-wide!).

Find Cosmetology Programs in Arkansas

Cosmetology Schools and Curriculum in Arkansas

A cosmetology career can be quite lucrative. As a cosmetologist or esthetic professional, you will work every day to make others feel confident about their appearance, through cosmetology, nail artistry, barbering and permanent makeup. In some fields, like massage and the application of aromatherapy treatments and body wraps, you will help to restore peace of mind to your clients. In addition, you might also help to bring back your clients’ youthful appearance through treatments like micro-dermabrasion and facials.

Cosmetologist Licensing in Arkansas

One exciting option available in Arkansas is that you can take the state licensing exams in English, Spanish, Korean or Vietnamese. Licenses are issued by the Arkansas State Board of Cosmetology. You must attend school to complete the required training hours and then pass the test. Once you have done this, you will receive your license shortly thereafter. The required education hours for licensing in Arkansas are:

– Barbering – 1500 Hours
– Cosmetology – 1500 Hours
– Cosmetology and Electrologist – 1850 Hours
– Nail Technician – 600 Hours
– Esthetician – 600 Hours
– Electrologist – 600 Hours
– Permanent Makeup – You need to have a Demonstrators License
– Massage – 500 Hours

All licenses must be renewed every odd year by your birthday (for example by your birthday in 2013 and by your birthday in 2015) after you have obtained your license. Cosmetology renewals are $100 and barbering renewals are $40. Salons must renew every year by paying $100 by the 31st of December. Coming to work in Arkansas from another state or country can be a complicated process. For the standard process, you must complete a Reciprocity Application and pay the $150 transfer fee. The state you are licensed in must send the Arkansas Board of Cosmetology proof of both your certification and the training hours you have completed. If your state required less hours than Arkansas for you to achieve licensing, then you will have to take additional exams as determined by the board. If you are a barber’s apprentice, you will have to go through additional special procedures in order to start working in Arkansas, whereas in other states, you might be able to work freely already. If you are from another country and would like to work in Arkansas, you must prove your licensing and experience in your home country and if it is sufficient, you then take the Practical Exam and if you pass, you can start to work. If your credit hours are too low, you will take additional exams and then take the Practical Exam to start working in Arkansas.

Job and Employment Outlook for Cosmetologists in Arkansas

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has predicted that earnings for a career in the cosmetology or salon and esthetics industry should rise about 14% from the years 2010 to 2020. The Wall Street Journal has stated that personal service careers are often stable even in down economies, because the jobs can’t be exported. In 2010, the BLS measured the median income for cosmetology and salon professionals at $22,500 a year. In addition to tips, many Arkansas cosmetologists earn $20,000 a year or more.

To become a cosmetologist, you need to get trained, then licensed. We can help you get started! With direct relationships with some of the top cosmetology schools in Arkansas, we can help you get directly in contact with them to get some more information on their programs. Then, you can ask any questions you may need answered. As a rule of thumb, you should request information from 2 or 3 schools, get the specific program information from them, and weigh your options before making your decision.