DEBUTANTES SCHOOL OF BEAUTY
1500-Hour Cosmetology Program in DeKalb, Illinois
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Different on Purpose. Built for Artists. Designed for Careers.
Debutantes School of Beauty offers a cosmetology program in DeKalb IL designed to prepare students for careers in the beauty industry. The program requires 1500 training hours and can be completed in about 14 months with strong attendance. Students gain hands-on experience in our student salon while licensed educators supervise every service.
Our 1500-hour cosmetology program prepares students for the Illinois State Board licensure exam while building real-world skills in hair, makeup, skin care, and salon business.
Small classes
Real clients
Business + social media training
Financial aid available for those who qualify
Apply now. Classes fill quickly.
June 3, 2026
FULL TIME COSMETOLOGY
- Limited Spots Available
- Financial Aid for those that Qualify
June 10, 2026
FULL TIME ESTHETICS
- Limited Spots Available
- Financial Aid for those that Qualify
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
1500-Hour Cosmetology Program
Illinois Approved
Our cosmetology program meets the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) requirements for licensure.
Upon successful completion of 1500 hours, graduates are eligible to sit for the Illinois Cosmetology licensing exam.
What You’ll Learn
Our curriculum blends classroom theory with hands-on clinic experience.
Students receive instruction in:
Haircutting and advanced styling techniques
Hair coloring and chemical services
Texture services and smoothing treatments
Makeup application and consultation
Basic skin care principles
Nail technology fundamentals
Sanitation, safety, and Illinois state laws
Client consultation and communication
Salon professionalism and customer service
Business, branding, and social media marketing for beauty professionals
Yes, we teach the artistry.
But we also teach you how to build a career.
Hands-On Clinic Experience
From early in the program, students work with real clients in our student salon under licensed supervision.
You will:
• Build confidence behind the chair
• Practice consultations
• Perform services in a real salon environment
• Develop client retention skills
Classroom learning is important. Real-world experience is essential.
Small classes. Real Mentorship
We are intentionally small so educators can actually teach, guide, and mentor.
Our instructors are actively working professionals who understand today’s beauty industry.
Business + Social Media Training
We go beyond the state minimums.
Students learn how to:
• Build a portfolio
• Grow on Instagram and TikTok
• Price services
• Build clientele
• Think like an entrepreneur
Graduation is the beginning. Not the finish line.
1500 Hours Cosmetology Full-Time Schedule
0-300 HOURS
Tuesday thru Friday
8:45 AM- 1:45 PM
roughly 4 months
300-1500 HOURS
Tuesday thru Friday
9 AM-3PM
every other Saturday
8AM-4PM
After 450 Hours
Flex Schedule Option
(Requires New Contract)
can discuss during Admissions
Tour
Tuition + Financial Aid
1500-Hour Cosmetology Program
Illinois Approved
As part of your admissions process, we’ll sit down with you during your financial aid meeting and go over tuition and program costs in full detail.
We understand that cost is usually the number one concern.
Your exact out-of-pocket cost depends on your FAFSA results. Once your FAFSA is received in our system, we will review everything with you in full detail, down to the penny, before you sign any enrollment paperwork.
No guessing. No surprises.
Debutantes School of Beauty FAFSA School Code: 042299
Financial aid is available for those who qualify.
.
How Admissions Works
Starting something new can feel big. We get it.
The good news? We walk you through every step.
Here’s what’s required to enroll in our 1500-hour Cosmetology program:
✔ High School Completion
You’ll need a high school diploma, GED, or official transcript showing completion. (If you’re enrolled through a partnering high school vocational program, we’ll coordinate with them.)
✔ Admissions Tour
Come see the school in action. Meet the educators. Ask questions. Feel the vibe.
This step matters.
✔ Financial Aid Meeting
If you plan to use financial aid, you’ll complete your FAFSA and meet with us to review your results. We go over tuition and costs in full detail before you sign anything, down to the penny.
No pressure. No surprises.
✔ Admissions Questionnaire + Enrollment Paperwork
A short questionnaire and your enrollment agreement must be completed before your start date. You can fill out the Admissions Questionnaire HERE.
✔ Application / Registration Fee
This secures your spot in the class.
That’s it.
We know this process can feel overwhelming, but you won’t be navigating it alone. Our admissions team will guide you step by step.
If you’re ready, your next move is simple.
FAQ
ask us
anything
How many hours is the Cosmetology program?
Our Cosmetology program is 1500 hours, as required by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
Once you complete your hours, pass all graduation requirements, and pass the Illinois state licensing exam, you can become a licensed cosmetologist in Illinois
How long does it take to finish?
Full-time students typically complete the program in about 14 months. We also offer part-time scheduling options (after 450 hours) for students who need more flexibility.
What are the admission requirements?
To enroll, you must have a high school diploma or GED (or equivalent documentation). You’ll also complete an admissions tour, financial aid meeting, and enrollment paperwork before your start date.
We walk you through everything step by step.
Do I need experience before starting?
No experience is required. We start with the fundamentals and build your skills from the ground up. All you need is motivation and a willingness to learn.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.
Your exact out-of-pocket cost depends on your FAFSA results. During your financial aid meeting, we go over tuition and costs in full detail before you sign anything. No surprises.
School Code: 042299
What is included in the tuition?
Tuition covers your education, instruction, and required hours toward Illinois licensure. Students also purchase a professional kit that includes the tools and materials needed for training.
We review all costs during your admissions process so you understand everything clearly.
Will I work with real clients?
Yes.
Students gain hands-on experience in our student salon under licensed supervision. You will practice consultations, perform services, and build real-world confidence before graduating.
What kind of careers can I pursue after graduation?
After completing 1500 hours and passing the Illinois licensing exam, graduates may pursue careers as:
• Licensed Cosmetologist
• Hair Stylist
• Color Specialist
• Salon Professional
• Makeup Artist
• Platform Artist
• Salon Owner
Your education here is the foundation. Where you take it is up to you.
Are classes small?
Yes. Intentionally.
Our small class sizes allow for more one-on-one support, mentorship, and personalized instruction.
Where are you located?
145 N. Third Street in historic downtown DeKalb, Illinois — just minutes from Northern Illinois University
DIFFERENT ON PURPOSE
