About the Barbering Program (Coming Fall 2024)
Specialize in men’s hair and grooming, and start a creative career in barbering. Barbers work primarily in salons, barber shops, and spas, and provide hair care and skin care services including hair cutting, hair styling, and hair sculpting, facials, and shaves. You will take classes specifically designed to help you pass both the practical and written portions of the California State Board of Cosmetology licensing examination for barbers.
All students who complete the barbering program at SMC earn a Certificate of Achievement and become eligible to take the California State Board of Cosmetology licensing exam for barbers. To qualify to take the exam, you must complete a minimum of 1,000 hours of training. Santa Monica College offers many opportunities to fulfill your training hours as you work toward your license. Hours from other cosmetology schools are transferable with proof of training document from the school.
Licensed cosmetologists completing 200 training hours in the barber crossover program are eligible to take the California State Board of Cosmetology exam to become licensed barbers. Cosmetologists who participate in the barber crossover program learn new industry-relevant skills that may increase their client base.
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Program Paths
Barbering
Associate in Science
Certificate of Achievement
This degree or certificate will prepare you for a barbering license from the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. After successful completion of the program and passing the state board exam, a career in barbering offers multiple employment and entrepreneurial opportunities, such as: platform artist, educator, barber, colorist, salon owner, sales representative, cruise ships, television and film industries.
Potential Career Options
Resources
Student Resources
We know college isn't always easy. We are here to help as you navigate through your SMC journey. This resource connects to information about Financial Aid, Tutoring Services, the Center for Wellness and Wellbeing and much more!
Transfer Center
SMC has been #1 in transfers for 34 years. Check in with the transfer counselors to find out the requirements for expanding your educational journey.
Career Opportunities
Our Cosmetology program is designed to have students' career ready. Consider scheduling an appointment with a career advisor with knowledge of the cosmetology profession to discuss internship and jobs as well as steps you can take to become job ready.