Aveda Arts & Sciences Institutes

Cosmetology (1,500 Hours)

Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Nashville
Franklin, TN
Diploma · On Campus
Cosmetology (1,500 Hours)
Accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences (NACCAS).
Classes are held in person at the Franklin campus in Franklin, Tennessee.
Tuition is $19,850 for the 1,500-hour program, plus a $3,200 kit fee.
This program takes about 50 weeks to complete. 1,500 clock hours.
A nonrefundable $50 application fee is charged.
Federal financial aid (Pell Grant and Direct Loans) is available to those who qualify.

Cosmetology (1,500 Hours) is a Diploma program offered by Aveda Arts & Sciences Institutes in Franklin, TN. The program takes 50 weeks to complete, with a total tuition of $19,850.

Program Overview

Step into the rhythm of Nashville’s bustling beauty scene with the dynamic Cosmetology program at the Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Nashville. Our comprehensive Cosmetology program covers hair care as well as other fundamentals like makeup application, skincare, and manicuring.

At our campus in Franklin, creativity takes center stage, fueled by vibrant energy and Southern charm. Dive into a beauty curriculum that blends classic techniques with innovative trends and the products and techniques that the Aveda brand is known for.

The Cosmetology program at Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute – Nashville is designed to prepare you for the state board exam in cosmetology and then, from there, a beauty career with a focus on hair stylist positions—though many of our grads may specialize in other parts of the beauty industry.

Coursework starts with the basics: sanitation, anatomy and physiology, hair structure and chemistry, ethics, and state laws related to the cosmetology trade. After this initial classroom instruction, you’ll learn hair styling skills, including shampoos and rinses, hair and scalp care, and hair cutting, shaping, and styling. Chemical techniques on hair will be part of your training at our Nashville campus as well, including permanent waves, as well as hair relaxing, coloring, bleaching, and toning.

To round out your cosmetology arsenal, you’ll learn foundational skills of esthetics and manicuring, including facials, brow arching, lash and brow tinting.

The objective of this program is to prepare the students for the state licensing examination in cosmetology. The program is intended to train students to enter the workforce as an entry-level hair stylist. A student will also learn the technical, personal, and business skills to prepare for the work in a professional salon as a stylist, retail sales specialist, salon manager, or salon owner with a focus on Aveda techniques and products.

What sets this Program apart

Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Nashville emphasizes hands-on training, so students feel ready for work in a fast-paced salon or spa upon graduation. All students have the opportunity to practice on guests under the direct supervision of our instructors. Our curriculum is personalized, so each student receives an education that’s unique to them and that enhances their creative skills.

Our esthetics students also have high praise for this campus’ programs. “I thoroughly enjoyed the accelerated program of Esthiology at Aveda Arts Institute in Nashville, Tennessee,” a former student wrote. “I especially enjoyed working in the spa for my education the last three months of my schooling.”

Aveda Arts Nashville delivers exceptional student outcomes, including a 99.5% state board licensure pass rate, a 86.4% graduation rate, and strong placement rate (77%) after graduation.*

Admission Requirements and Process

To enroll in the Cosmetology program at our Nashville campus, you must meet the following requirements:

Age: 16 years old

Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Other Requirements: Must submit a government-issued photo ID, social security card, and proof of citizenship or lawful status

Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute is committed to ensuring a safe educational environment and reserves the right to deny admission to applicants with a criminal record. Transfer hours are only accepted from schools within the Aveda Institute network.

General Requirements

  • Application and fee
    Complete the Application for Admission and submit it to the Admissions office along with the $50 non-refundable application fee.
  • Interview and tour
    Schedule an informational interview and tour the school with an Admissions Manager.
  • Letters of recommendation and intent
    Submit a letter of recommendation and a letter of intent.
  • Proof of education
    Submit valid proof of education, such as a high school diploma, a transcript showing high school completion, a GED or state equivalency certificate; ability-to-benefit students…
  • Photo ID and age
    Submit valid, unexpired photo identification with proof of age; students must be at least 16 years old to enroll and 17 to sit for the licensing examination.
  • Citizenship or lawful status
    Submit valid, unexpired proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful status with eligibility to attend postsecondary school.
  • Social Security card
    Submit your social security card.
  • Kit payment
    Personal-pay students must pay the kit fee by the registration deadline; financial-aid-eligible students may roll the kit fee into financial aid.

Application Process

  1. 1
    Request information
    The best way to get started is to request information from your chosen campus; the admissions team will walk you through the process.
  2. 2
    Interview and tour
    Schedule an informational interview and tour the school with an Admissions Manager.
  3. 3
    Apply
    Complete the Application for Admission and submit it with the $50 nonrefundable application fee; you can apply in person or online.
  4. 4
    Submit your documents
    Submit a letter of recommendation and letter of intent, proof of education, photo identification with proof of age, proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful status, and your social security card.
  5. 5
    Complete your financial plan
    Before enrolling, complete a financial plan with your campus financial aid manager; the first step is to complete the FAFSA (school code 026009).
  6. 6
    Pay kit and registration fees
    Personal-pay students pay the kit fee with the enrollment agreement by the registration deadline.

Program Schedule

Cosmetology: 30 hours per week. Phase 1 and 2: Monday – Thursday 9am – 5:30pm (1-hour lunch). Phases 3-5: Wednesday – Saturday 9am – 5:30pm (1-hour lunch).

Upcoming start dates: November 16, 2026.

New cohorts start regularly throughout the year. Our start dates are as follows:
  • November 16th, 2026

Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information

Cost and Financial Aid Information is an estimate for general reference only. It is not an offer or guarantee of financial aid or of any price, and what a School charges you may differ.
Total Program Tuition
≈ $19,850
Total Program Cost
≈ $23,100
FAFSA Code
Net Price Calculator

Tuition: $19,850. Kit fee: $3,200 (kit fees are mandatory and may not be pro-rated; students may not opt out of kit fees). Application fee: $50 (nonrefundable; not eligible for VA funding).

Total of listed charges: $23,100.

Required textbooks are included in the kit cost, but students can choose to purchase their textbooks from another source, in which case the kit fee is reduced by the applicable cost.

Payment plans: students can pay in installments through an interest-free monthly payment plan; no interest is charged if the total is paid off before graduation.

Financial aid is available for those students that meet the necessary requirements. Aveda Arts & Sciences Institutes participate in the Pell Grant Program and the Federal Direct Loan Program. Complete the FAFSA at fafsa.gov using federal school code 026009.

Veterans’ benefits are not available in all institute locations, and only to those who qualify.

Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute graduates who enroll in another program receive a 15% discount off the published tuition rate.

Net Price Calculator: https://avedaarts.edu/wp-content/themes/avedaarts/net-price-calculators/npcalc-nashville.htm

Curriculum

The course of study is comprised of 1,500 clock hours. Each of the subjects listed below will be covered in the theory and practical work.

Beyond the technical skills, you’ll also get exposure to other topics that will help you in your new career. Our students also learn business management and marketing skills to give them a boost when they start work in a salon or other workplace.

With our program’s strong focus on practical work, you’ll practice on the many clients who flock to this industrial-chic destination in Franklin for unbeatable value from upcoming Aveda talent. With the supervision of licensed professionals and your instructors, this hands-on training will be instrumental in building your confidence and getting those new skills firmly under your belt before you launch your career.

Required Courses

Name
General
Chemical
Physical

Career Outcomes

The program is intended to train students to enter the workforce as an entry-level hair stylist, with the technical, personal, and business skills to work in a professional salon as a stylist, retail sales specialist, salon manager, or salon owner.

Graduation, placement and licensure (2024 Annual Report to NACCAS, as published in the 2026-27 catalog — Nashville, Cosmetology): graduation 78.72%, placement 94.57%, licensure 100.00%.

Aveda Arts & Sciences Institutes do not guarantee employment to students; however, the schools assist students in finding employment, hold annual job fairs, and can assist with out-of-state placement subject to licensing transfer.

What to expect as a Aveda Arts & Sciences Institutes student

Our Aveda campus is a beautifully restored car dealership off I-65 in picturesque Franklin, across the street from Cool Springs Galleria Mall. It’s an easy commute from Nashville as well as from nearby towns of Brentwood, Spring Hill, Columbia, Smyrna, and Murfreesboro.

Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Nashville is near lots of shopping, a variety of dining options from chain (Chili’s) to independent (The Honeysuckle), and outdoor activities. With grocery stores, banks, and retail shops within easy distance, you can readily weave your daily life into your new beauty school routine.

Music City draws artists and passionate individuals to its vibrant nightlife, cuisine, and creative energy, and Aveda Arts Nashville in nearby Franklin is a standout among beauty schools. With a state-of-the-art green facility and personalized curriculum, the Institute buzzes with fresh talent and youthful spirit.

Campus Address

Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Nashville
1765 Galleria Blvd.
Franklin, TN 37067

Why Accreditation Is Important

Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences (NACCAS), recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Licensed by the Tennessee Board of Cosmetology.

  • A reliable indicator of quality
  • Approved program of study
  • Qualified instructors
  • Recognition by employers nationwide

Accreditations

NACCAS

Images

Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Nashville student life
Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Nashville student life
Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Nashville student life
Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Nashville
Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Nashville
Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Nashville

Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Nashville?
Located in the heart of Music City, Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Nashville provides hands-on training in cosmetology and esthiology (esthetics) while preparing students for careers in Tennessee’s growing beauty and wellness industry. Students learn technical skills, guest experience, and business development through Aveda’s industry-recognized curriculum.
What programs are offered at Aveda Arts Nashville?
The Nashville campus offers Cosmetology and Esthiology (Esthetics) programs. Students receive hands-on training, professional development, and real-world experience designed to prepare them for licensure and success in the beauty industry.
How do I become a cosmetologist in Tennessee?
To become a licensed cosmetologist in Tennessee, you must complete a state-approved cosmetology program and meet state licensing requirements. Aveda Arts Nashville provides the education and practical training needed to help students prepare for licensure and begin their beauty careers.
How long is cosmetology school in Nashville?
Our cosmetology program combines classroom learning with hands-on salon experience, allowing students to develop skills in haircutting, hair color, styling, texture services, skincare, makeup, and guest care while completing Tennessee’s licensing requirements.
What is the class schedule for the Cosmetology program at Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Nashville?
Students beginning the Cosmetology program at Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Nashville attend Monday through Thursday, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with a one-hour lunch, for their first 20 weeks. The schedule then shifts to Tuesday through Friday for the remainder of the program, at the same hours and lunch length. Total class time is 30 hours per week. Our Nashville team is glad to walk you through other schedule options that may be available based on your desired start date.
What is the cost of the Cosmetology program at Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Nashville?
At Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute in Nashville, Tennessee, the 1,500-hour Cosmetology program has a tuition of $19,850. The supply kit fee is $3,200, and a non-refundable $50 application fee is required. Estimated total program cost is $23,100. Financial aid is available to those who qualify. Our Nashville team is ready to connect with you about payment options and provide a complete overview of program fees.
Why attend beauty school in Nashville?
Nashville is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, with a thriving beauty, wellness, entertainment, and hospitality industry. Students benefit from learning in a creative and entrepreneurial environment while building connections and opportunities within the local beauty community.
Do I need previous beauty experience to enroll?
No prior beauty experience is required. Whether you’re starting your first career or making a career change, our programs are designed to teach foundational skills while helping students build confidence through hands-on learning.
Can I tour the Nashville campus before enrolling?
Absolutely. Prospective students are encouraged to schedule a campus tour to meet our team, explore the learning environment, learn about financial aid options, and discover which program is right for their career goals.
What career opportunities are available after graduation?
Graduates may pursue careers as hairstylists, colorists, estheticians, skincare specialists, makeup artists, salon managers, educators, or beauty entrepreneurs. Nashville’s growing beauty and wellness market offers opportunities across salons, spas, resorts, wellness centers, and independent businesses.
Where is Aveda Arts Nashville located?
Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Nashville serves students from across Middle Tennessee, including Nashville, Franklin, Brentwood, Murfreesboro, Hendersonville, Clarksville, Lebanon, and surrounding communities.
Is Aveda Arts Nashville worth it for a beauty career?
Many students choose Aveda Arts Nashville because of its hands-on training, guest experience opportunities, Aveda curriculum, and strong focus on career readiness. Students graduate with both technical skills and professional development experience designed to help them succeed in the beauty industry.
What makes Aveda Arts Nashville different from other beauty schools?
Aveda Arts Nashville combines technical beauty education with wellness, sustainability, guest care, and business development. Students learn using Aveda’s plant-powered products while gaining real-world experience that helps prepare them for careers in today’s beauty industry.
What is the best cosmetology school in Nashville, TN?
The best cosmetology school depends on your career goals, learning style, and desired student experience. Aveda Arts Nashville offers hands-on salon training, industry-focused education, professional development, and access to a network of beauty professionals, making it a popular choice for aspiring hairstylists and beauty professionals in Middle Tennessee.
Ready to get started?
Request information about Cosmetology (1,500 Hours) at Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Nashville.
Cosmetology (1,500 Hours)