Allan Hancock College Community Education is opening the door to a new career with the start of its tuition-free barbering program this fall.

The new program will provide aspiring barbers with an accessible, affordable pathway into one of California’s most sought-after skilled professions, Hancock said.

An interest list for the program is currently open for potential students.

The noncredit barbering program prepares students with the technical knowledge and hands-on training needed to pursue barber licensure in California.

Students who successfully complete the program will satisfy the 1,000 hours of instruction required by the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology before taking the state licensing examination, Hancock said.

Courses are offered through a partnership with Cosmoton Academy in Lompoc, where students receive classroom instruction and practical barbering experience in a professional training environment.

Students complete two required noncredit courses over approximately one academic year: Barbering I in the fall semester and Barbering II in the spring semester.

Instruction includes haircutting, shaving and beard grooming, chemical services, infection control and sanitation, health and safety practices, California barbering laws and regulations, professionalism customer service, and hands-on barbering techniques.

“Our new Barbering Program opens the door to a rewarding career while removing one of the biggest barriers to career training, the cost of tuition,” said Dana Avila, Barbering Program coordinator.

“Students will gain real-world experience, develop industry skills and graduate prepared to pursue barber licensure and meaningful employment in a growing profession,” Avila said.

Licensed barbers may pursue careers in barber shops, salons, men’s grooming establishments, independent businesses and shop ownership.

Although tuition is free, students are responsible for purchasing required textbooks, barbering supplies, uniforms, and state licensing fees.

Individuals interested in joining the program are encouraged to sign up for the Barbering Program Interest List. Students selected for enrollment will be invited to attend a mandatory orientation covering program requirements, expectations and next steps.

Applicants pursuing California barber licensure must meet eligibility requirements established by the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, including being at least 17 years old, completing the 10th grade or equivalent, and providing either a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). 

For more information or to join the Barbering Program’s interest list, visit https://www.hancockcollege.edu/communityed/barbering.php or email Avila at danaavila@hancockcollege.edu.

For more about Allan Hancock College Community Education tuition-free classes, visit www.hancockcollege.edu/communityed or call 1-805-347-7553.