Cosmetology Schools in Missouri
Whether you want to become a cosmetologist in metropolitan Kansas City or work in another city or less populated part of Missouri, you'll need to attend a cosmetology school to get the training you need.
Browse our directory of cosmetology schools in Missouri, or skip ahead to learn about the state's cosmetology licensing requirements and job outlook.
We researched all the cosmetology schools that Missouri has to offer and found the cream of the crop. View our list of the best cosmetology schools in Missouri.
Browse All Cosmetology Schools in Missouri
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Beaumont Technical High School (high school students only) – Accredited
Saint Louis, MO 63107
Merrell University of Beauty Arts & Science – Accredited
Jefferson City, MO 65109
Merrell University of Beauty Arts & Science – Accredited
Jefferson City, MO 65109
South County Tech High School (high school students only) – Accredited
Sunset Hills, MO 63127
St. Joseph Beauty University of Hair and Nail Design – Accredited
Saint Joseph, MO 64506
You must attend a school that meets any licensure requirements as defined by your state. Most states require that you graduate from an accredited or state-approved school.
Related Beauty Careers
Not sure this is the right fit for you? Learn more about other career options in the beauty industry. Related specializations include:
Cosmetology Schools Near Me
Check out the Cosmetology schools these cities in Missouri have to offer.
How to Become a Cosmetologist in Missouri
- 1,500 education hours or 3,000 apprentice hours are required to become licensed.
- You must renew your license every 2 years.
- 0 continuing education hours are required to renew your license.
- The average salary for cosmetologists in Missouri is $30,560.
- There is a predicted 6% job increase between 2018–2028 for cosmetologists.
Each state has its own set of requirements to become a cosmetologist. In Missouri, you'll need to meet the following requirements to begin your new career:
While no background check is currently required, the board may deny your application if you have been found guilty or submitted a plea of no contest for serious crimes, including murder, sexual offenses, endangering a child, or similar crimes.
Missouri Cosmetology Careers
Average yearly salary for cosmetology in Missouri
Cosmetologists in Missouri earned a mean annual salary of $30,560 in 2020, slightly lower than the national average of $32,740. The top 10% of cosmetologists in the state earned $47,720 or more.
Your salary can vary by location, the type of salon you work in, and the services you provide. For example, a hairstylist in a small town will likely earn less than a cosmetologist in a high-end salon in Kansas City.
The highest-paying metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas for cosmetologists in Missouri are:
| Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Areas | 2020 Median Salary |
| Columbia, MO | $30,900 |
| Cape Girardeau, MO-IL | $28,940 |
| North Missouri nonmetropolitan area | $27,850 |
| St. Louis, MO-IL | $27,570 |
| Springfield, MO | $26,480 |
| Kansas City, MO-KS | $25,170 |
| Central Missouri nonmetropolitan area | $24,190 |
Table information sourced from O*Net (2021)
What to Expect From a Cosmetology Program in Missouri
Required to earn a cosmetology license
The first step to becoming a cosmetologist in Missouri is completing 1,500 hours of training through a state-approved beauty school. This training will help you learn a wide variety of skills related to hair care and styling, nail care, skin care, and health and safety. Depending on the school you attend, you may also learn business skills, such as how to build your business through social media, client interactions, and paperwork requirements.
While the exact courses may vary, the Missouri Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners requires Missouri cosmetology schools to cover the following topics:
To reach the required 1,500 hours of training, your school may offer additional courses related to eyebrows, nail care, or business management. After completing your training program, you should be well prepared to provide beauty services, offer great customer service, and manage your clients.
Can I Apprentice as a Cosmetologist in Missouri?
Missouri does have a cosmetology apprenticeship program, which allows you to meet the schooling requirement by working alongside a licensed cosmetologist rather than attending a licensed cosmetology school. To be eligible for a cosmetologist license, you must complete 3,000 hours of training under the supervision of a licensed cosmetologist.
After completing the training hours, you must take and pass the exams required by the state and apply for a license.
Missouri Cosmetology Licensing Requirements
After completing the required 1,500 hours of cosmology training, you can apply for a temporary license before taking the required exams.
To schedule your test, visit the Prov website. Select "Schedule a Test," then "Self Registration." After selecting the test you wish to apply for, your request is sent to the State of Missouri for approval. Once your request is approved, you will receive an email with the next steps.
Missouri requires cosmetologists to pass both a theory and practical exam. The theory exam costs $88, while the practical exam costs $58. The fees are the same whether you're testing for the first time or retaking one or both exams.
The written test covers various topics, including infection control and safety practices, anatomy and physiology, chemistry, and documentation requirements. The practical exam requires you to bring a supply kit, including a mannequin, and display your ability to provide hair services, including setting up your work area and following the appropriate safety procedures.
Upon exam completion, you will receive an unofficial score at the testing center and official scores within three business days. If you fail one or both parts of the exam, you may retake them as often as necessary with no waiting period.
If you require special accommodations due to disability, contact Prov at (877) 228-3926 for more information.
Missouri Cosmetology Licensure Reciprocity
Whether you qualify for a license transfer in Missouri depends on where you obtained your original license and the training hours in your home state. According to the state board, you may qualify for license transfer if your training requirements are at least 95% of Missouri's requirements. Applicants for a reciprocal license must also take and pass an open book state law test at the time of application.
License Renewal
License renewal period
Continuing education required
All cosmetology licenses expire on September 30th of each odd year, which means you may have to renew your initial license in less than two years. The cost to renew licenses is $30.
Currently, there are no continuing education requirements for cosmetologists in Missouri. However, some employers may require ongoing education to maintain your employment. Expanding your skills is also a good way to increase your earning potential.
Contact the Missouri State Board of Cosmetology
- 3605 Missouri Boulevard, Jefferson City, MO 65102
- Website: Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners
- Email: cosbar@pr.mo.gov
- Call: 573-751-1052
- Fax: 573-751-8167
Being involved in associations for cosmetology professionals in Missouri is a great way to build your network and client base, as well as obtaining access to a wide variety of educational resources. Cosmetology professionals are celebrated in Missouri, and they are sticking to the state motto and showing others that it is a worthy career path to pursue. With that in mind, those intrigued consult these organizations.
Prov
Schedule your cosmetologist license exams, review tutorials, and get tips for the test day on the Prov website.
Associated Hairdressers Cosmetologist and Barbers of the State of Missouri
As an organization dedicated to a higher standard of education, excellence, and proficiency in the beauty industry, the group provides members with various resources, including classes, an annual conference, scholarships, and more.