Vocational COSMETOLOGY
Cosmetology Education
While You're Still in High School
Starts every august
DEBUTANTES SCHOOL OF BEAUTY
Partner Career Centers
Fox Valley Career Center
(FVCC)
Batavia,
Burlington Central,
Geneva,
Kaneland,
St. Charles East,
St. Charles North
Kishwaukee Education Consortium (KEC)
DeKalb, Genoa-Kingston, Hiawatha, Rochelle, Sycamore
Indian Valley Vocational Center (IVVC)
Earville, Hinckley-Big Rock, Indian Creek, Leland, Newark, Paw Paw, Plano, Sandwich, Serena, Somonauk, Yorkville,
Schedule: 2:30 to 7:30 Tuesday-Thurs
Vocational Cosmetology Program in DeKalb, Illinois
LEARN MORE
How to Qualify for the Vocational Program
Students interested in the Vocational Cosmetology Program must meet a few requirements before enrolling.
✓First, students must be entering their junior year of high school and attend a school that participates through one of our partner career centers.
✓The next step is to speak with your high school guidance counselor to confirm eligibility and receive approval to participate in the program.
✓Once approved by your school, Debutantes School of Beauty will host orientation sessions and private tours for interested students and families so you can learn more about the program and what to expect.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Start Dates
The High School Cosmetology Program begins once each year in August, following the academic school calendar.
Students interested in the program should begin speaking with their career counselor during their sophomore or junior year of high school to plan their enrollment.
What You’ll Learn
Students in the vocational cosmetology program follow the same Illinois state cosmetology curriculum taught in professional beauty schools.
The 1500-hour cosmetology program is taught through a structured progression that builds both technical skill and industry knowledge.
Training includes:
• Hair cutting and styling
• Hair coloring and chemical services
• Skin care fundamentals
• Nail services
• Makeup application
• Sanitation and safety
• Client consultations
• Salon professionalism
Students also gain experience working with real clients in a supervised salon environment, helping them build confidence and real-world skills.
Interested? Book a Meeting with your school counselor (first step)
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.
Interested? Book a Meeting with your school counselor (first step)
Tuition Information
Tuition for the vocational program is coordinated through the participating career center and high school district.
Payment plans and financial arrangements will be discussed during program orientation.
Our admissions team can help answer questions and guide students and families through the process.
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A Head Start on Your Career
Starting cosmetology education during high school gives students a powerful advantage.
You can graduate high school already on your way toward a professional license and a creative career.
For students who are passionate about beauty, art, and working with people, this program provides a strong foundation for the future.
Different on Purpose.
Built for Artists.
Designed for Careers.
.
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
How Admissions Works
Students interested in the Vocational Cosmetology Program must meet a few requirements before enrolling.
✓First, students must be entering their junior year of high school and attend a school that participates through one of our partner career centers.
✓The next step is to speak with your high school guidance counselor to confirm eligibility and receive approval to participate in the program.
✓Once approved by your school, Debutantes School of Beauty will host orientation sessions and private tours for interested students and families so you can learn more about the program and what to expect.
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 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?
Students interested in the Vocational Cosmetology Program must meet a few requirements before enrolling.
✓First, students must be entering their junior year of high school and attend a school that participates through one of our partner career centers.
✓The next step is to speak with your high school guidance counselor to confirm eligibility and receive approval to participate in the program.
✓Once approved by your school, Debutantes School of Beauty will host orientation sessions and private tours for interested students and families so you can learn more about the program and what to expect.
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.
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
