Provided by
Kalamazoo Valley Community College (KVCC)
Kalamazoo Valley provides convertible to credit, employer-recognized credentials which 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.
Programs in development include a 600-training hour nail tech program, a 750-training hour esthetician program, a 500-training hour cosmetology instructor program and a one-year barber instructor program.
*Based on approval from the state of Michigan and Higher Learning Commission.
Quick Facts
Type
Sub-Associate Certificate or Credential Program
Length
12-24 months (depending if part-time or full-time)
Format
In-person
Location
Texas Charter Township
Career Field(s)
Next Start Date
10/05/2026
Next deadline
08/01/2026
Am I Eligible For This Program
Who might this program serve uniquely well?
Promise Scholars
Funding is available for Kalamazoo Promise-eligible students.
How Much Will I Earn Or Spend
Program Financial Information
Tuition and Fees (Without Financial Aid)
$15,000 for Cosmetology.
$18,000 for Barbering.
Cost of Books and Supplies (Without Financial Aid)
Both programs require a book and a kit. Fees vary, between $700 – $1,000, and includes state licensure exam fees.
Qualification for Financial Aid
Application
Financial Aid
Promise Eligible
Paid Program?
Program Free?
No
Where Is This Program Located
Address
6767 West O Avenue
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Location Information
Location Type
Main Provider Address
Neighborhood
Texas Charter Township
What Other Resources Does This Program Offer
None
What Could This Training Lead To?
Credentials
License Recognized by the State Involved or the Federal Government
Cosmetology License
License Recognized by the State Involved or the Federal Government
Barbering License
Community College Certificate of Completion
Kalamazoo Valley Community College - Certificate of Completion
When And How Can I Start?
Application Instructions
Steps to Enroll:
- Apply to the School of Cosmetology and Barbering: Applications are currently closed and we are not taking any more applications until Aug 1, 2026. Applications will be reviewed beginning Aug. 1 for the October cohort and Dec. 1 for the February 2027 cohort.
- Apply to Kalamazoo Valley Community College: Complete an online application to Kalamazoo Valley Community College. Be sure to indicate your program as KVCC Career Academy (KVCA) so we know you are interested in attending the School of Cosmetology and Barbering. You will receive an acceptance letter from the Admissions, Registration and Records office within one week.
- Financial Aid: The School of Cosmetology and Barbering qualifies for Kalamazoo Promise funding.
- Acceptance: If you are accepted into the School of Cosmetology and Barbering, you will receive an email from with your cohort start date, important next steps, rules and regulations. Acceptance letter emails will be sent in September for the October cohort and January for the February cohort. You must accept your spot within 14 days or your seat will be offered to another student.
Admissions
Rolling Admissions? No
Contact
Moises Hernandez
Career Training Navigation Manager at The Kalamazoo Promise
mhernandez@kalamazopromise.com