Kentucky has some really good barber schools for those inclined to follow the profession. But there are a few guidelines you need to follow if you wish to make a career of barbering. As with almost all U.S. states (with NY as one exception) you’ll need to go to school for a set number of hours and get a license after passing exams. Keep reading below for the details…
How Many Hours Of Schooling Does A Barber Need in Kentucky?
The KY board stipulates that you need 1500 hours in school (and other things) in order to qualify to take exams. That training and education time can be spent either full-time, or part-time evenings or weekends. It doesn’t matter as long as you put in the time and have it documented. Find a school located near you with our app:
Things you’ll study include both practical, hands-on training and book-learning. The hands-on will include things like:
- Tool use and maintenance
- Hair cutting for different age groups and genders
- Recognizing skin and scalp conditions
- Sterilization procedures
- … and a lot more!
The scholastic part of the program will take up less time and include topics such as:
- Upper body anatomy
- Disease control
- Barber shop psychology
- History
- Business management
- … and more
Kentucky Barber Licensing
Kentucky is unique in that the board has instituted a gradual licensing system.
After you graduate from school you’ll need to take an exam before a probationary period. This is to ensure that you know what you are doing and have all the knowledge in place to become an independent, successful barber.
The probationary period itself is just what it says. You are showing that you can do the job. It is kind of like and barber’s apprenticeship in that you are getting further training and guidance while working under an established barber.
After you’ve finished the 6-month probation you can then take the full license exam. This exam focuses on showing your competency at such tasks as: hair cutting, and permanent waves and colouring. Once you’ve successfully passed the exam you can pay a fee and get your license and… start work!
License Renewal
You’ll need to renew your license every year in order to remain in good standing. It’s pretty easy, though, you only need to fill out the form and pay a fee. At present it isn’t necessary to take any courses to keep your license current
Find Employment As A Barber In Kentucky
Fortunately the demand for barber’s is strong all over the country and KY is no exception. You’ll have a number of work options. You can work in a barber shop, start your own business, or even gradually become an instructor, and who knows maybe even work at the school you graduate from.
To get an idea of job availability check out online employment and career sites.
Some Kentucky Barber Schools: Costs Compared
| Name | Address | Costs: Tuition + Fees |
|---|---|---|
| South Central Barber College of Kentucky | 2417 Russellville Road, Bowling Green, KY 42101 | $6,800 tuition, and fees |
| Campbellsville University School of Barbering | 2020 Old Hodgenville Rd., Campbellsville, KY 42718 | $12,500 tuition |
| Tri-City Barber College | 2024 South Preston St., Louisville, KY 40217 | $4,700 - $5,700 tuition |
| Bailey's Barber-Stylist College | 820 North Limestone Lexington, KY 40505 | $6,000 |
| Nai’s 1st School of Hair Design | 4088 Murphy Lane, #101 Louisville, KY 40245 | not known |
Other KY schools for cosmetologists, estheticians, nail techs and makeup artists.
Some School Websites:
americancollegeofbarbering.com
baileysbarbercollege.com – Lexington
bcsck.com
campbellsville.edu
Did we miss any barber training institutes in Kentucky? Please contact us to let us know.