The need for well-trained cosmetologists will rise steadily at a rate of approximately 15 percent from 2010 to 2020, according to The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Several beauty schools are consistently ranked as the best in the country, although each school provides an experience that is unique and should be considered according to whether it is a good fit for your specific educational needs.

Aveda Institutes

In addition to being a premier beauty school, Aveda is a beauty product manufacturer that prides itself on environmental sustainability. Aveda Institute has over 50 locations around the world and offers programs in cosmetology, skin care, nail care, massage therapy and spa therapy. The school is ranked first on Beauty and Cosmetology Schools' list of top ten beauty schools, second among those ranked on the Cosmetology Schools in Colorado website, and third on Ask Deb's ranking. At this school you will learn how to use Aveda products to help clients achieve a standard of beauty that is the result of your craft and not only the result of a product.

Empire Beauty Schools

With more than 70 years experience educating beauticians, Empire Beauty Schools rank second on Beauty and Cosmetology Schools' list, second according to Ask Deb, and fifth on the Cosmetology Schools in Colorado website. Empire offers four programs of study: cosmetology, cosmetology educator, esthetics and makeup artistry. The cosmetology programs cover hair, nails and makeup and also educate students on the interpersonal aspects of operating a business in the beauty field. Empire has locations in 21 different states, and because the school is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences, students may be eligible for federal financial aid.

Ogle Beauty Schools

Ogle Beauty Schools have eight locations throughout the state of Texas and offer programs in cosmetology and esthetics that you can complete on either a full-time or part-time schedule. The full-time program takes approximately 11 months to complete while the part-time program takes approximately 18 months. Both programs are accredited by the NACCAS and allow students to qualify for federal financial aid. Ogle ranks third on Beauty and Cosmetology Schools' list and fourth on Ask Debs' and is dedicated to delivering an education that is student-centered and salon-modeled.

Paul Mitchell Schools

Paul Mitchell Schools are ranked fourth according to Beauty and Cosmetology Schools and sixth according to Ask Deb, and they have been educating cosmetologists since 1980. This school offers programs in cosmetology, barbering, nail care, skin care and teacher training, as well as an advanced academy for students who have already completed a program. Paul Mitchell Schools focus on making education fun while catering to each student's particular strengths and abilities. In fact, this school structures its teaching methods according to Harvard professor Howard Gardner's multiple intelligences theory.

Related Articles