Whenever you decide to embark on a new career adventure, it's a good idea to get a better understanding of the field you wish to enter. Attending school to become a barber is no exception. If you are considering attending barber college, here are a few things you should know to help you make the decision that best fits your needs.
How Much Do Barbers Get Paid?
As with many industries, pay is different based on a number of factors. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that barbers can make anywhere from $8.39 per hour to $21.94 per hour, with the median expected pay sitting at $12.12 per hour. Your pay may depend on the demographics of the clients you serve or the prices set at the barber shop where you find employment.
What Type Of Schooling Is Required?
Barber college will provide you with the training you need to become a barber. You will attend traditional classroom courses that teach you the basics of hygiene and safety, and you'll have hands-on courses that teach you how to cut and shape hair and shave facial hair. Once you have completed the basic courses, your barber college will have you work with actual clients to begin to perfect your skills, which is otherwise known as your apprenticeship. Barber college will also provide the training needed to obtain your license so you can get a job as a barber upon course completion.
Do I Need A License?
States require barbers to be licensed in order to perform barber services. The licensing requirements may vary depending on the state you live in. Maryland, for example, requires proof of at least 1,200 hours of training in a barber school setting or 2,250 hours of practice as a registered apprentice. The license in Maryland is good for up to two years. Washington requires 1,000 hours of schooling or 1,200 hours of apprenticeship. Your barber college will help you to determine the requirements and prepare you for the examination so you can get the licensing you need.
How Easy Is It To Get A Job?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that demand for barbers and hairdressers will grow by 10 percent in the coming years, which is a faster rate of growth than some other job industries. Finding work will, of course, depend on where you live. Check with your barber college to see if it offers any job placement programs upon program completion.
If you are interested in becoming a barber, look over these points to help you make your final decision. Becoming a barber can be a gratifying career option, so take the time to consider whether or not the is the right career move for you and your financial needs.
