Barber Course is a Diploma program offered by A Better U Beauty Barber Academy in Albuquerque, NM. The program takes About 31 weeks full time to complete, with a total tuition of $16,522.
Program Overview
1200 Hours | Full-Time / Part-Time. The Barbering Program requires 1200 clock hours of training and takes approximately 31 weeks to complete. You will spend eight (8) weeks in a classroom, then you will have the opportunity to work on the floor where you will be servicing actual customers and preparing for your state board exam.
Mission. A Better U Beauty Barber Academy is committed to providing a high level of education and service. We strive to prepare students to graduate as successful beauty professionals who can serve themselves and their communities.
What sets this Program apart
Expert Instructors. Learn from experienced professionals who are dedicated to your success and growth in the industry.
Student Support Services. We offer extensive support services to help students navigate their educational journey and career placement.
Flexible Scheduling. Our programs are designed with flexible scheduling options to accommodate your busy lifestyle.
Skill Development. Our academy focuses on enhancing your barbering skills through hands-on training and expert guidance.
Comprehensive Curriculum. Explore a well-rounded curriculum that covers all aspects of barbering and beauty education.
Career Opportunities. Gain insights into various career paths available in the barbering and beauty industry.
Admission Requirements and Process
Take the First Step. We appreciate the chance to introduce you to A Better U Beauty Barber Academy, a school dedicated to producing skilled, creative professionals in the hair business. Please review the enrollment packet and submit an application to enroll in our barber school.
General Requirements
- Minimum ageProspective students must be at least seventeen (17) years old.
- Two copies of identificationDriver's License, State Identification Card, Birth Certificate, Passport or Baptismal Certificate.
- Proof of educationProof of 10th grade education (diploma or GED). Cash pay: proof of at least two years of high school education.
- Down payment (cash pay)If paying cash, a down payment (one-third) is required.
- Letter of IntentYour interests, goals and aspirations in the hairstyling/barbering industry.
- Letter of RecommendationFrom an authority figure, mentor, supervisor, etc. (Not a family member)
- Interview with DirectorTour the facility and interview with the Director.
- Student Permit FeeNon-refundable $25 online payment to the New Mexico Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists, required to receive a Barber Permit/License.
- Application FeeNon-refundable $100, paid by cash, credit card, money order or cashier's check.
- Criminal convictionsApplicants convicted of 16.34.2.15 CRIMINAL CONVICTIONS, Sub-section A, will not be awarded a barber license, and will not receive a NMBBC student permit, which is required for the clinical hours of the ABU Barber program: (1) homicide or manslaughter; (2) kidnapping, false imprisonment, aggravated assault or aggravated battery; (3) rape, criminal sexual penetration, criminal sexual contact, incest, indecent exposure, or other related felony sexual offenses; (4) crimes involving child abuse or neglect; (5) crimes involving fraud, forgery, embezzlement, credit card fraud, or receiving stolen property; or (6) an attempt, solicitation, or conspiracy involving any of the felonies in this subsection.
School Information
Campus Location
Why Accreditation Is Important
A Better U Beauty Barber Academy is accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE). It is licensed by the New Mexico Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists and the New Mexico Higher Education Department, and approved by the New Mexico State Approving Agency, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation and the New Mexico Employment Security Division.
- Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE)
- Listed under COE in the U.S. Department of Education's DAPIP database, active
- Eligible for Title IV federal student aid — FAFSA school code 042833
- Licensed by the New Mexico Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists
- Licensed by the New Mexico Higher Education Department
- Approved by the New Mexico State Approving Agency for VA benefits
- Approved for Division of Vocational Rehabilitation funding
Accreditations
Application Process
- 1
- 2Complete the FAFSAComplete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).FAFSA Code for Albuquerque: 042833Complete the FAFSA
- 3Tour the facility and interview with the DirectorVisit the campus at 5400 Phoenix Ave NE, Albuquerque.
- 4Submit ApplicationComplete the enrollment application and submit the required documents and registration fee.Apply Now
- 5Receive enrollment decision
Program Schedule
Program Start Dates: First Tuesday of every month.
Length: 1200 Hours | Full-Time / Part-Time. Approximately 31 weeks to complete.
Full-Time Schedule: Tuesday–Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM. Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM. 30-minute lunch after 6+ hours.
Part-Time Schedule: Tuesday–Friday: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM. Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM. Minimum 20 hours a week.
Theory Hours: Full-Time: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM. Part-Time: Monday–Friday, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Clinical Hours: Full-Time: Tuesday–Friday 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM, Saturday 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM. Part-Time: Tuesday–Friday 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Saturday 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM.
VA Student Schedule (Full-Time Only): Weeks 1–8: Tuesday–Friday 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM, Saturday 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM. Weeks 9–Graduation: Tuesday–Friday 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (1 flex day at 3:30 PM), Saturday 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM.
Client Hours: Monday–Saturday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
- October 06th, 2026
- November 03rd, 2026
- December 01st, 2026
- January 05th, 2027
- February 02nd, 2027
- March 02nd, 2027
- April 06th, 2027
- May 04th, 2027
- June 01st, 2027
- July 06th, 2027
- August 03rd, 2027
- September 07th, 2027
Curriculum
Curriculum Includes:
- Theory
- Chemical Rearranging – Perms and Relaxers
- Hairstyling
- Facials
- Shampoo and Scalp Treatments
- Hair Coloring – Bleaching
- Hair Cutting & Beard Trimming
- Sterilization, Sanitation, Bacteriology
- Salon Business
- Retail Sales
Textbook: Milady’s Standard: Professional Barbering (6th Edition).
Required Courses
| Name | Lecture | Lab | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orientation/Professionalism | 20 | 55 | 75 |
| Chemical Rearranging (Perms/Relaxers) | 40 | 160 | 200 |
| Hairstyling | 10 | 140 | 150 |
| Facials, Shaving & Facial Hair Design | 20 | 155 | 175 |
| Shampoo & Scalp Treatments | 20 | 55 | 75 |
| Hair Coloring & Lightening | 25 | 100 | 125 |
| Hair Cutting & Beard Trimming | 20 | 230 | 250 |
| Sterilization & Sanitation | 20 | 55 | 75 |
| Salon Business & Retail | 10 | 40 | 50 |
| Miscellaneous/Field Trips | 5 | 20 | 25 |
| Totals | 190 | 1,010 | 1,200 |
Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information
Financial Aid Resources. We are here to help you walk through 1) Applying for Financial Aid, 2) Entrance Counseling, and when you are all complete, 3) Exit Counseling.
The Application. Use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form to apply for financial aid for college, career school, or graduate school. School Code: 042833.
Entrance Counseling. If you have not previously received a Direct Loan or Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL), the Federal Government requires you to complete entrance counseling to ensure that you understand the responsibilities and obligations you are assuming by enrolling in college.
Exit Counseling. Exit counseling provides important information to prepare you to repay your federal student loan(s).
If using Financial Aid: Proof of high school education (Diploma, Transcript, or G.E.D.), most recent Tax Returns and W-2s. If you are under 24 with no children, not married or not in the military, your parents' taxes will be required. If you or your parents did not file last year's taxes and are not required to file, please submit W-2s for last year.
In-house financing. In-house financing with deposit and monthly payment plans. Late fee of $50 if payment not received by the 15th of each month.
Payment Options: Student Financial Aid (FAFSA); Pell Grant; Direct Student Loans; Department of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR); Veterans Affairs (VA) Benefits (please submit Certificate of Eligibility); Cash; Credit Card; Cashier's Check (Personal Checks are not accepted).
Payment Plan: $6,500 down payment. 0% interest on $19,500; installment plan. Eight monthly payments $1,625.00 (ability to make 2 bi-weekly payments of $812.50).
Tuition (Prices subject to change) — Enrollment Packet
| Barber 1200 Hours | |
|---|---|
| Application Fee (non-refundable) | $100.00 |
| Tuition | $16,521.67 |
| Barber Kit | $1,600.00 |
| Tax | $1,378.33 |
| Total | $19,600.00 |
Tuition & Fees — Student Catalog
| Item | Barber Program (1200 hrs) |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | $100.00 |
| Tuition | $16,364.37 |
| Kit/Supplies/Books | $1,600.00 |
| Taxes | $1,535.63 |
| Total | $19,500.00 |
Kit/Supplies are non-refundable.
Exam Fees (Approximate): Barber License: $50. Theory Exam: $130. Practical Exam: $73.
Cooling-Off Period: 3-day period after signing agreement. Full refund if withdrawn within cooling-off period.
If School Cancels Class: 100% refund within 45 days of planned start date.
If Student Withdraws Before First Class: $100 registration fee retained; balance refunded within 45 days.
Sources: Student Catalog 2025–2026 (Effective Date: December 16, 2025) and Enrollment Packet (3.19.24).
Career Outcomes
Barber License (New Mexico):
- Complete 1,200 hours of instruction
- Pass NIC theory & practical exams (75% minimum)
- Pass State law exam
- Be at least 17 years old
- Have completed 10th grade or equivalent
Master Barber License:
- Meet all barber license requirements
- Pass NIC exams with 75% or higher
- Submit application and fees to NM Board
Job Placement:
- Assistance provided by instructors and Director
- Partnerships with local barbershops and salons
- Résumé and reference help available
- Placement not guaranteed
What to expect as an ABU student
Attendance Requirements: Minimum 85% attendance (Barber Program). Minimum 75% attendance (Financial Aid eligibility).
Make-Up Hours: Allowed with Director approval. Must be completed within program timeframe.
Leave of Absence: Maximum 180 days. Requires approved form.
Grading: A 90–100%, B 80–89%, C 75–79%, D 70–74%, F below 70%. Two attempts allowed per test; major tests require 75% to pass.
Dress Code: ABU polo shirt or smock with dark shirt underneath. Black pants/skirts (no jeans except Fridays). All-black shoes (including soles and laces). Smocks/aprons must be worn on clinic floor.
Facility: Total Area: 5,500 sq. ft., including Classroom (1,013 sq. ft.) and Clinic Area (3,845 sq. ft.). Capacity: 24 chairs, 4 shampoo bowls, 36 students maximum.
Student Salon: All services performed by supervised student barbers.
Student Services: Counseling available by appointment. Disability accommodations provided per ADA guidelines. Housing not provided on campus; assistance available upon request.
School Information
Campus Location
Why Accreditation Is Important
A Better U Beauty Barber Academy is accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE). It is licensed by the New Mexico Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists and the New Mexico Higher Education Department, and approved by the New Mexico State Approving Agency, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation and the New Mexico Employment Security Division.
- Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE)
- Listed under COE in the U.S. Department of Education's DAPIP database, active
- Eligible for Title IV federal student aid — FAFSA school code 042833
- Licensed by the New Mexico Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists
- Licensed by the New Mexico Higher Education Department
- Approved by the New Mexico State Approving Agency for VA benefits
- Approved for Division of Vocational Rehabilitation funding