Montgomery Beauty School

Montgomery Beauty School is a career training school at 8736 Arliss St. in Silver Spring. It offers two full programs: a 1500-hour Cosmetology Program and a 1200-hour Professional Barbering Program. Full-time cosmetology students can finish in nine months, and the barbering program can be completed in 7.5 months.

The cosmetology program covers hair braiding, haircutting, hair styling, skin care and client service. Lessons pair theory lectures with practice on mannequins and then on actual clients. Students use Milady curriculum materials, including textbooks, workbooks and kits for hands-on work. The course also prepares students for entering a salon or spa, with help on resume writing, interviewing and mock state board licensing applications.

The school's barbering course teaches cutting for both men and women, color work including lightening, chemical texturizing, shaving, beard and mustache shaping, and facial massage and skin treatments. Lessons mix classroom theory, practice on mannequin heads, and supervised work with paying clients, and the curriculum follows the Milady training method. Visiting industry professionals occasionally lead demonstrations. Once students are ready, they move onto the clinic floor to serve real customers. Graduates are prepared to sit the state board exam and to work in a barbershop or salon.

Admission involves a personal interview and a visit to the school, which is required of all prospective students. Day classes start the first Monday of each month, and night classes start the first Tuesday evening of each month. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or hold a recognized visa, be 17 years old at examination or licensure, and have a high school diploma or GED or pass the Wonderlic Test entrance examination. English reading, writing and speaking are assessed during the entrance interview. Admission tours can be booked through the website.

Financial aid is available to qualified students, including Pell Grants, Direct Loans and PLUS Loans. Students applying for aid must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The school offers job placement services and career advising on interviews, employment opportunities and marketable skills, but it does not guarantee employment and does not act as an employment agency.

Training is built around classroom theory followed by supervised practice, moving students from mannequins to paying clients in the on-site clinic as their skills develop. Instructors are described as experienced, and outside professionals are brought in for occasional demonstrations.