Hair Care

Kalamazoo Valley School of Cosmetology and Barbering FAQ

Picture of students and instructor in class
Picture of students washing clients' hair
Picture of students practicing styling hair

When will Kalamazoo Valley begin offering cosmetology and barbering classes?
The college will begin fully offering cosmetology and barbering in Fall 2024. Classes will be taught in renovated spaces on the college's Texas Township Campus, located at 6767 West. O. Ave. in Kalamazoo, by employees of the college. The nearly 10,000 square-foot lab space will include the cosmetology school's salon and spa and the barbering school's barbershop. Currently, Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency's (KRESA) Career Connect Career and Technical Education (CTE) students are completing barbering and cosmetology coursework at the college.

Who can enroll in the Kalamazoo Valley School of Cosmetology and Barbering?
Enrollment is open to all interested persons who meet Kalamazoo Valley Admission Procedures. Below are the steps to apply for Cosmetology or Barbering for the 2024-25 school year.

1. Complete this Request for More Information form. Requests received prior to May 2 will be given first consideration for the fall cohort. Requests received after May 2 will be considered for subsequent enrollments in the 2024-25 school year.

2. Those who successfully complete a Request for More Information form will be contacted by the email and asked to complete a program application. Applications fully completed by June 16 will be given first consideration.

3. Successful applicants will receive a response from with next steps. Individuals who complete the steps above by the provided dates will receive a response by July 11.

When will Kalamazoo Valley begin offering cosmetology and barbering services to the public?
Discounted services to the community will be offered beginning in May 2024 in the renovated lab spaces so students can hone their skills. For details on services provided and cost, watch for updates at www.kvcc.edu/haircare.

What programs will be offered?
Kalamazoo Valley will provide non-credit, employer-recognized credentials which will prepare students to take state cosmetology and barbering licensing exams with the possibility to build upon these certifications to earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in salon management* or an Associate of Applied Science in Occupational Technical Studies. The non-credit, employer recognized credentials offered in Fall 2024 are a 1,500-training hour cosmetology program and 1,800 training hour barbering program. Programs currently in development include a 400 training hour nail tech program and 400 training hour esthetician program.

*Based on approval from the state of Michigan and Higher Learning Commission.

How can I get more information or get involved?
Watch for updates at https://www.kvcc.edu/haircare. Or request more information at or call 269.488.4090.

Request More Information