KEY TAKEAWAYS: Considering a career in cosmetology? Whether it's esthetics, MUA, hair styling, or beyond, start your career off strong with the right beginning – cosmetology school. There are so many choices out there, but we're sharing our list of the top 5 best cosmetology schools in the US we think every wanna-be beauty pro should consider.
Updated: September 13, 2026
If you’re seeking a career that allows you to express yourself creatively and artistically every day, gives you the freedom to build a custom business exactly as you’d always imagined, and grants you the privilege to bring out the best in people you interact with on a daily basis, then becoming a cosmetologist might be the perfect choice for you!
There are plenty of reasons to become a certified cosmetologist – for starters, you’re always in demand, you can build your own schedule, and you can merge work with play in an easier way than other professional endeavors.
But becoming a licensed, certified, and in-demand cosmetologist doesn’t just happen, you need will, talent, and of course, training. We’ve laid out the top five cosmetology programs that you should start looking into to get your cosmetology career going!
Check out our favorite programs, hear us out on why they’re great choices, and figure out which schools and programs are the perfect fit for you.
For the definitive guide for anyone in or considering entering the field of cosmetology, click here.
The Best Cosmetology Schools in the US all Beauty Pros Should Consider
Paul Mitchell
Paul Mitchell has been a worldwide and world-renown brand for decades, which you probably know. But did you know they’re also one of the best cosmetology programs in the country?
With a special focus on hair, the Paul Mitchell programs offer prospective cosmetologists courses on skin, nails, and general cosmetology as well. In other words, there’s no shortage of knowledge coming from this institution.
"Paul Mitchell programs offer prospective cosmetologists courses on skin, nails, and general cosmetology as well."
This school has frequently been listed on the top five list of best cosmetology schools by the Beauty School Directory.
With this program, you’ll be prepared to ace your state boards and your license exams, and you’ll certainly have endless opportunities post-grad – the Paul Mitchell Brand has plenty of name recognition in the industry.
Aveda
We know you’ve heard of Aveda before. The popular brand is more than just premium plant-based beauty products, in fact, they’re a prestigious institute with lots of locations, plenty of great instructors, and the hands-on experience you need to become the best cosmetologist you can.
Aveda is frequently ranked in the top 5 of the country’s most respected programs, ranking them in the top 3 as recently as 2007. There are more than 100 worldwide locations.
This program doesn’t just grant you access to the best in the business, it helps you become recognized as one of the best in the business – in other words, no matter how great the actual program is, the Aveda name has clout in the cosmetology industry, and that’s never a bad thing.
The Ogle School
This institution, founded in 1973, is one of the best programs for cosmetologists in the United States. With several locations in Texas, people travel from around the world to attend this renown institution that offers hands-on experience, visiting lectures from famous professionals in several industries, and offers plenty of resources to teach hopefuls how to manage their own salons.
This institution offers several forms of financial aid and grants and promises its students that not only will graduates leave their program prepared to build their careers, they’ll be better recognized for the name recognition of the Ogle program.
Empire Beauty School
The Beauty and Cosmetology Schools Directory has frequently listed the Empire Beauty School as one of the top cosmetology programs in the nation.
This program continues to grow and prosper with each passing year. It has over 100 locations, in several states, and offers students cosmetology programs, esthetic and makeup programs, hair, skin, and nail programs, as well.
The chain of schools is nearly 8 decades old and continues to lead the industry in cosmetology graduates and professionals. The program offers hands-on experience, salon management courses, and even environmentally-friendly locations in both North Carolina and Florida.
Bellus Academy
If you’re looking for a cosmetology school with a strong beauty-industry focus, Bellus Academy is another program worth considering. Bellus offers cosmetology programs at campuses in California and Kansas, along with additional programs in areas like esthetics, barbering, and nail technology.
The school takes a hands-on approach to beauty education, giving students the opportunity to build practical skills alongside their classroom training. Bellus Academy is also accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences (NACCAS) and approved by the appropriate state agencies in California and Kansas.
Because cosmetology licensing requirements vary by state, it’s important to make sure the specific Bellus program you’re considering meets your state’s requirements before enrolling. But if you’re looking for a recognized beauty school with multiple program options, Bellus Academy is a solid school to add to your list.
Start Your Career Strong With Reliable Cosmetology Insurance
Choosing one of the top cosmetology programs is an exciting first step—but building a successful career takes more than just great training. As you begin working with clients, practicing new techniques, and gaining real-world experience, having the right cosmetology insurance in place is essential.
Cosmetology insurance helps protect you from unexpected incidents, so you can focus on refining your skills and growing your confidence behind the chair. It also shows clients and employers that you take your profession seriously from the very beginning.
At Elite Beauty Society, we offer affordable, comprehensive cosmetology insurance designed specifically for students and professionals. Get covered early and set yourself up for long-term success in the beauty industry.