Minnesota is a great place to learn the ins and outs of the beauty industry. Any one of Minnesota’s many beauty schools can get you a well-rounded education that can even begin with a free or low-cost education at cosmetology programs in high school.

You will be amazed at how rewarding it is to help others look and feel more beautiful in an environment that inspires creativity and personal growth. And step one is getting your license.

Minneapolis Panorama
Minneapolis Panorama by steve lyon [CC BY-SA 2.0]

How Long Are Minnesota Cosmetology Schools?

A cosmetologist education in Minnesota will get you one of the best and most well-rounded educations you could want to begin your new career. You will need at least a 1550 hour training course (similar to other states like California) to apply for your license to become a cosmetologist. Find a school nearby with our app:

You will study courses in professional ethics, scalp and hair care, skin disease, and chemistry, and nail design. Though beauty school can be hard at times, in general, you will love getting your education while participating in practical experience with clients. Once you’ve finished your education hours, you can apply for your license.

Get Your Minnesota Cosmetology License

The next step to getting your cosmetology license is to take your written and theory exams. Contact the state board to schedule your exams, and pay the exam fee when you apply.

The general portion of the Minnesota Cosmetology Exam is written as a 155 multiple-choice question exam. The state portion includes a portion on Minnesota state laws and rules. You must pass both to qualify for a license. Once you have passed both, you must apply for your initial operator license, by completing the application and paying a fee.

Out-Of-State Candidates

If you have a current cosmetology license in your home state, and want to move to Minnesota, you’ll need to meet Minnesota’s reciprocity requirements.

You’ll need to verify the license of your home state, your high school diploma, and your exam scores. You’ll also need to submit the reciprocity application.

If you are short training hours from your home state, you must make up the difference in work experience at a rate of one training hour for three hours of work experience.

How To Renew Your Minnesota Cosmetology License

Your Minnesota State License needs to be renewed every three years. You are required to complete four hours of approved continuing education in that time. These should be in health, safety, sanitation, and a refresher on Minnesota’s laws and rules as well. Any other coursework or specialized training you undertake is encouraged, but not required.

Beauty Industry Employment In MN

The Minnesota beauty industry is experiencing a boom, especially as regulations are changing across the state to give clients the best and safest possible practice.

You may find yourself working in a salon or spa, but you could also find work in a nursing home, medical facility, even in athletic centers. Wherever your passion lies, you’re sure to be motivated by your first job offer!

Examples of Some Cosmetology Schools in Minnesota Compared

NameAddressCostOther Programs
Aveda Institute Minneapolis400 Central Avenue Southeast, Minneapolis, 55414Tuition: $18,950
Kit Fee: $2,700
Application Fee: $100
Enrollment Fee: $50
Tech Fee: $250
Total Cost: $22,050
Cosmetology, Massage Therapy, Esthiology
Cosmetology Careers Unlimited2534 East Beltline, Hibbing, Minnesota 55746$15,500Cosmetology, Nail Technician, Esthetics, Continuing Education
Hastings Beauty School221 2nd Street East, Hastings, 55033Registration: $200
Student Kit: $2470
Tuition: $15,190
Total: $17,860
None
Minnesota School of Cosmetology 1425 County Road 101, Plymouth, 55447Tuition: $18,600
Kit Cost: $1,600
Cosmetology, Esthiology, Massage Therapy
Model College of Hair Design201 8th Avenue South, Saint Cloud, 56301Tuition:$15,900.00
Kit and Books:$1,550.00
Application Fee:$50.00
Total:$17,500.00
Cosmetology, Esthiology, Nail Technician, Continuing Education
Nova Academy of Cosmetology5979 Bandel Road Northwest, Rochester, 55901Registration Fee $100+ Kit Fee $3,300 + Tuition Fee $16,350 = Total $19,750Cosmetology, Esthiology, Nail Technology

Other Minnesota schools for nail technicians, estheticians, barbers and makeup artists.

Some School Websites:
ccucollege.net
hastingsbeautyschool.com
msccollege.edu
mcohd.com
nova-academy.com
pci-academy.com

Did we miss any beauty schools in Minnesota or hair schools in MN in this list? Please let us know.