Everything You Need to Know to Start Beauty School

Do you have a passion for style, hair, and helping others feel their best? Are you looking for a creative, people-focused career? If so, beauty school could be the perfect fit—and Wade Gordon Hairdressing Academy can be the perfect place to start.

Whether you dream of becoming a professional hair stylist, colorist, or barber, beauty school is the first step toward a career in the beauty industry. This blog will walk you through everything you need to know to get started, from choosing the right program to what you can expect as a student at Wade Gordon Hairdressing Academy.

What Is Beauty School?

In beauty school, aspiring professionals learn the practical and theoretical skills needed to work in the beauty and grooming industry.

At Wade Gordon Hairdressing Academy, our programs specialize in:

• Cosmetology: a full-spectrum education in hair design, color, and chemical treatments.
• Barbering: hands-on training in men’s grooming, clipper work, and classic barbering techniques.

You’ll gain real salon experience, prepare for licensure, and develop the confidence to succeed in the industry.

Step 1: Choose the Program That Fits Your Passion

Your career path starts by selecting the program that best matches your goals and interests. At Wade Gordon Hairdressing Academy, we offer two focused and industry-driven programs:

Cosmetology Program

If you’re passionate about creative hair styling, hair color transformations, and client makeovers, the Cosmetology Program is for you.

You’ll learn:

• Haircutting and styling techniques
• Hair coloring, highlights, balayage, and chemical services
• Shampooing, conditioning, and scalp treatments
• Client communication and salon business skills
• Preparation for the state board licensing exam

This program prepares you to work in salons, spas, or even start your own business. Many of our cosmetology graduates go on to become stylists, color specialists, salon owners, or educators.

Barbering Program

If you’re drawn to the sharp, technical art of men’s grooming, the Barbering Program may be a better fit.

You’ll gain expertise in:

• Precision haircutting with clippers and shears
• Beard design and grooming
• Hot towel shaves and facial grooming
• Men’s styling trends and product use
• Sanitation, safety, and customer service

Barbers often work in traditional shops or modern men’s salons, and some go on to open their own barbershops or work freelance.

Not sure which one’s right for you? Schedule a tour to meet instructors, see students in action, and explore both options.

Step 2: Understand the Admissions Process

Getting started is simpler than you might think. You don’t need experience—just a passion for beauty and the motivation to learn.

To enroll at Wade Gordon Hairdressing Academy, you’ll need:

• A high school diploma or GED
• A valid government-issued photo ID
• A completed enrollment application
• A campus tour and admissions interview

We welcome all students, whether you’re coming straight from high school or making a career change later in life.

Step 3: Plan for Tuition and Financial Aid

Cosmetology and barbering programs are an investment in your future. At Wade Gordon Hairdressing Academy, we work with students to make education accessible and affordable.

Financial Aid Options

We are a Title IV school, meaning federal financial aid is available to those who qualify. Our financial aid team can help you apply for:

• Pell Grants
• Federal Direct Loans (subsidized and unsubsidized)
• Parent PLUS Loans

Payment Plans

If you don’t qualify for federal aid or want to pay as you go, we offer flexible in-house payment plans.

Scholarships

We also offer scholarship opportunities and can guide you through applications for outside programs.

Let us help you explore every option. Our goal is to make your beauty education achievable, no matter your background.

Step 4: Know What to Expect on Your First Day

The first day of beauty school is a mix of excitement and nervous energy—but don’t worry, you’ll feel right at home at Wade Gordon Hairdressing Academy.

You’ll Receive a Professional Kit

Each student receives a high-quality kit tailored to their program, which may include:

• Shears and clippers
• Brushes, combs, and styling tools
• Mannequin heads
• Capes and aprons
• Hair color supplies and product samples

Orientation and Campus Tour

You’ll meet your instructors, review the school’s policies, and get an overview of your schedule. It’s also a great time to meet your classmates and begin building relationships.

Dress Code

You’ll be expected to follow a professional dress code that reflects salon industry standards—clean, polished, and ready to work with clients.

What You’ll Learn

Both the cosmetology and barbering programs at Wade Gordon Hairdressing Academy are designed to be hands-on and career-focused.

Cosmetology Curriculum Highlights

• Haircutting (long layers, bobs, pixies, etc.)
• Advanced hair coloring and lightening techniques
• Updos and styling for special events
• Chemical texture services (perms, relaxers)
• Scalp and hair analysis
• Salon safety, sanitation, and state law
• Client communication and consultation

Barbering Curriculum Highlights

• Men’s cuts: fades, tapers, crew cuts, and classic styles
• Beard shaping and straight razor shaving
• Hair sculpting with clippers and guards
• Line-ups, edge-ups, and detail work
• Facial massage and grooming
• State law and safety
• Business fundamentals for barbershop success

Both programs include state board exam prep, so you’ll graduate feeling confident and ready to take your licensing test.

What Does a Typical Week Look Like?

At Wade Gordon Hairdressing Academy, your days are divided between classroom theory and practical experience on the salon floor.

You’ll be guided by licensed professionals who have worked in salons and barbershops and understand what it takes to succeed.

Build Your Portfolio While You Train

Beauty is a visual industry, and a strong portfolio is your ticket to landing clients and job opportunities.

At Wade Gordon Hairdressing Academy, you’ll be encouraged to:

• Take high-quality photos of your best work
• Track progress from your first haircut to your final project
• Create a professional Instagram or website to showcase your talent
• Get instructor feedback and improve your techniques over time

By graduation, you’ll have a portfolio that demonstrates your growth and professional abilities.

Preparing for Licensure

After completing your program, you’ll be eligible to sit for the Texas state licensing exam for your chosen field.

We’ll Help You Prepare With:

• Mock written exams
• Hands-on practical exam practice
• Guidance on how to register and schedule your test
• Support with study resources and technique review

Your success is our priority. We don’t just train you for school, we train you for your career.

What Can You Do After Graduation?

Graduates of Wade Gordon Hairdressing Academy go on to careers in a variety of settings, including:

• High-end salons and barber shops
• Mobile or freelance styling
• Television, fashion, and film
• Platform artistry and product education
• Salon ownership or entrepreneurship
• Beauty educator roles

With a strong foundation in both technique and business, you’ll have the flexibility to shape your own path.

Why Students Choose Wade Gordon Hairdressing Academy

Here’s what sets us apart from other beauty schools:

1. Industry-Experienced Instructors

Our teachers have years of professional experience and a passion for education.

2. Real-World Salon Experience

You’ll work with real clients under expert supervision, gaining practical skills every day.

3. Trend-Forward Training

We stay ahead of beauty and barbering trends to give you a competitive edge.

4. Supportive Environment

From admissions to graduation, our team is here to support your personal and professional growth.

5. Strong Industry Connections

We help connect you with local salons, barbershops, and opportunities to kickstart your career.

Is Beauty School Right for You?

If you’ve ever:

• Watched haircut videos for fun
• Styled your friends’ hair before big events
• Followed hairstylists or barbers on Instagram
• Dreamed of working in a creative, social environment

…then beauty school might be your perfect fit.

How to Get Started

You’re closer to your dream than you think. Here’s how to take the next step:

1. Schedule a Tour

Come see the campus, meet instructors, and ask questions in person.

2. Talk to Admissions

We’ll help you choose the right program and walk you through requirements.

3. Apply for Financial Aid

Our team will guide you through the FAFSA process and explore other funding options.

4. Choose Your Start Date

Classes start regularly, so you can pick a time that fits your life and goals.

Your Future Starts at Wade Gordon Hairdressing Academy

Starting beauty school is a bold and exciting move. With the right training and support, your passion can become a rewarding career. At Wade Gordon Hairdressing Academy, we help aspiring cosmetologists and barbers turn their dreams into real-world success.

Are you ready to take the first step? Contact us today to schedule your tour and start your beauty career with Wade Gordon Hairdressing Academy.