New Mexico is a vibrant and diverse state, with a lot to offer. Whether you’re rural or cosmopolitan, you’re likely to find adventure, excitement, and beauty in New Mexico. If your idea of beauty includes helping people look, and feel their best, working at a salon or spa, you might consider a career as a cosmetologist.

If you’re not sure about the requirements, look no further! We can help you navigate what it takes to be licensed in cosmetology in Albuquerque, New Mexico. And it all begins at the right schools.

Albuquerque, NM skyline
Albuquerque, NM by camerafiend CC BY-SA 3.0

How Long Do Cosmetology Schools in Albuquerque New Mexico Take?

New Mexico is home of some of the top spas in the country. Before beginning your exciting new career, you must choose a Board-approved school to study at. You’ll need to complete 1600 hours of education including sanitation, salon and business retail, facials, and scalp treatments, among other classes.

Your NM Beauty License

Once you have completed your study period, you will need to apply for your exams before you can be licensed. New Mexico uses the NIC written and practical exams, both of which must be passed with a 75% or higher in order to be licensed. You’ll also need to pass the state jurisprudence exam, to prove your knowledge of the laws and standards of working as a cosmetologist.

Reciprocity

If you’re currently or have in the past been licensed from another state, you may still be required to take the exams and be certified by the New Mexico Board.

You must prove you have completed at least 1600 hours of cosmetology training, or at least five years of full time experience. You must also prove you are over 17, and have a high school education. You’ll still need to prove your NIC scores, and take the New Mexico Jurisprudence exam.

How To Renew Your New Mexico Cosmetology License

To renew your NM license you must apply for renewal some time during your birth month, every year. You’ll need to pay the fee at this time.

Unless you are a cosmetology instructor, you are not required to fulfill any continuing education hours. Cosmetology instructors are required to complete 12 hours continuing education per year.

Work Opportunities For Cosmetologist in NM

New Mexico is an amazing place to start your career in the beauty industry, with some of the top spas in the country. Your school may have links to help you find that all-important first job. Or take a look at great hospitality job sites like (https://www.hospitalityonline.com/embassy-albuquerque/jobs).

Salaries will vary depending on where you work and your level of experience. You can often improve your income by starting your own salon, but that also comes with added stresses.

Still having doubts about studying cosmetology?

Some Beauty Schools in Albuquerque New Mexico And Other Cities

Name Address Tuition Other Programs
Olympian Academy Of Cosmetology - Albuquerque6300 San Mateo Boulevard Northeast, Albuquerque, 87109$15,520Barber, Nail Technician
Adorabella Beauty Academy800 Juan Tabo Boulevard Northeast, Albuquerque, 87123$13,995Barber, Nail Technology, Esthetics
Glitz School of Cosmetology2460 Missouri Avenue, Las Cruces, 88001$10,995Barber, Nail Technology, Esthetics
Razor Academy4100 Southern Boulevard Southeast, Rio Rancho, 87124$13,000Barber Program
TONI&GUY Hairdressing Academy 2201 Uptown Loop Road Northeast Suite F, Albuquerque, 87110$15,000Barbering, Esthiology
Vogue College of Cosmetology2434 Cerrillos Road, Santa Fe, 87505$15,195Esthetics, Nail Technology

Did we miss any cosmetology schools in Albuquerque, NM and other places? Please let us know.

Other NM schools for nail technicians, estheticians, barbers and makeup artists

School Websites:
dewolffcollege.net
olympianacademy.com
vistacollege.edu
vogue.edu