Barbering Schools in Pennsylvania

Barbering schools in Pennsylvania prepare aspiring barbers for careers in salons and barber shops where they provide hair and face treatments specifically for men. Many times, these barbering schools are located within a larger cosmetology school. But unlike cosmetology students who study manicuring, makeup and esthetics, barbering students train exclusively in the art of men’s hair care and facial services. A comprehensive education in barbering schools should include:

• How to design mustaches, goatees and beards
• How to give scalp treatments
• How to shape hair to suit a client’s facial shape and features
• How to bleach, color, perm and chemically straighten hair

Depending on whether the student attends school on a full or a part-time basis, a barbering school education can take anywhere from 9 to 24 months to complete. In addition to the features listed above, barbering schools should include curriculum in business management, sanitation, hygiene, interpersonal communication skills and the state rules and regulations pertaining to professional barbers and barber shop employees.

The Career of a Barber

Although there are a number of career opportunities for the experienced barber, most find employment in a barber shop. These establishments cater specifically to men and offer a wide range of grooming services for men’s hair and faces. The demand for professionally-trained barbers is high, and is expected to grow even higher over the next 10 years. Combined with the fact that barbers generally commission a higher salary than cosmetologists, barbering schools are an ideal choice for anyone who wants to train for a fun, creative and hands-on profession with excellent income potential.
In addition to working in a salon or barber shop, the Bureau of Labor Statistics found that 44 percent of barbers are self-employed. A self-employed barber may operate an independent barber shop or provide hair cutting and styling services out of his home. Whether a barber is employed in a salon or operates his own barber shop, he must obtain a license prior to working in the state of Pennsylvania. Licenses are granted upon the completion of a state-approved program and after passing an exam of the State Board of Barber Examiners.