Hays Academy of Hair Design

Nail Technology

Salina
Salina, KS
Certificate · On Campus
Nail Technology
Hays Academy of Hair Design is accredited by NACCAS, licensed by the Kansas State Board of Cosmetology and approved by the Kansas Board of Regents.
Classes are held in person at the Salina campus, Tuesday through Saturday, with Thursday classes running until 7:30 p.m.
Tuition is $3,595; with the $100 registration fee and $900 for books, kit and equipment, the total cost is $4,595.
This program takes about 3 months to complete. 350 continuous clock hours on a full-time Tuesday through Saturday schedule.
A $100 registration fee is paid with the registration contract to secure your spot in a class.
Financial aid is available to those who qualify, including Pell Grants and Direct Loans; use FAFSA school code E02178 for the Salina Campus.

Nail Technology is a Certificate program offered by Hays Academy of Hair Design in Salina, KS. The program takes 3 months to complete, with a total tuition of $3,595.

Program Overview

The Nail Technology Program at Hays Academy of Hair Design consists of 350 continuous hours of nail technician training in a span of three months. The program focuses on the latest techniques as well as the use of products and equipment. This program is governed and regulated by the Kansas Board of Cosmetology and is accredited through the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences.

Our nail technician program is highly regarded in Kansas, offering 350 hours of continuous training over three months. You can learn acrylic nails, natural nail care, spa manicures and pedicures, nail art, communication and business skills, and so much more to prepare for your future as a nail technician.

Our Program Offers.

  • Acrylic Nails
  • Natural Nail Care & Beauty
  • Spa Manicures
  • Spa Pedicures
  • Nail Art
  • Communication Skills
  • Business Understanding
  • Learning How to Maximize Potential

Graduation.

  • Complete 350 clock hours of training
  • Cumulative GPA of 75% in EACH of the following: theory, practical and attendance
  • Complete all requirements of the Nail Technology curriculum
  • Complete all requirements in the student skill book
  • Have either paid all financial obligations or made arrangements for payment

What sets this Program apart

Our school partners with several top-ranking brands to give students access to industry leaders, such as Wella, Dermalogica, and the American Association of Cosmetology Schools. Our school is family-owned and both locations are in small communities. This helps us keep learning more personalized and provide support where needed.

Financial Literacy. We are proud to announce that we have now added Qnity For Schools. As part of your enrollment, you’ll get top financial training empowering you to succeed with your money AND your craft. The MONEY by Qnity program will guide you through eight visually engaging modules; each module featuring five timeless and timely MONEY lessons; including videos, activities, discussions, real life money stories, and so much more!

Admission Requirements and Process

The admission requirements for our school are as follows: you must be 16 years of age or older, and you must have a high school diploma or its equivalent (example G.E.D) or have evidence of completion of home schooling that is registered with the state in which the home schooling was received. A High School transcript is acceptable as proof of high school completion if the high school completion date is shown.

To secure your spot, please complete the registration contract with your $100 registration payment before your chosen course begins. If all available spots are filled before you complete your registration, we’ll gladly help you enroll in a future class.

General Requirements

  • Minimum age
    You must be 16 years of age or older to enroll (the Kansas licensing examination requires you to be 17 or older at the time of the exam).
  • High school diploma or equivalent
    You must have a high school diploma or its equivalent (for example a G.E.D.) or evidence of completion of home schooling that is registered with the state in which the home…
  • Proof of high school completion
    A high school transcript is acceptable as proof of high school completion if the high school completion date is shown.
  • No Ability to Benefit admissions
    As of April 1, 1992, the school no longer accepts Ability-to-Benefit students.
  • Transfer students
    A maximum of 1000 hours can be transferred; transfer students are evaluated to confirm their knowledge and skill level and must have a comparable working kit and textbooks.
  • No vaccination records required
    Hays Academy requires no information regarding vaccinations from potential students to attend school.

Application Process

  1. 1
    Contact admissions
    Fill out the form or give us a call at (785) 833-2280. From there, we’ll talk further about what your goals are for your education, when you want to start, and more.
  2. 2
    Schedule a tour
    Schedule a tour with us to see the facilities, meet the staff, and go over admission requirements together.
  3. 3
    Apply for financial aid
    If you are interested in applying for financial aid, begin your FAFSA® application at studentaid.gov using school code E02178 (Salina Campus); we can schedule a time for you to meet with a financial aid representative when you come in for a campus visit.
    FAFSA Code for Salina: E02178
    Complete FAFSA Application
  4. 4
    Complete your registration
    Complete the registration contract with your $100 registration payment before your chosen course begins to secure your spot.

Program Schedule

Our programs operate on a full-time schedule, Tuesday through Saturday:

  • 8:00 A.M. – 4:30 P.M. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday
  • 11:00 A.M. – 7:30 P.M. Thursday
  • 9:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. Saturdays (as designated)

For students who have completed the basics, our student salon is open on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. All students are required to commit to at least one Saturday a month after completing basics. Part-time schedules can be accommodated on a case by case basis.

Start dates. Our institution offers four admissions a year; classes begin in February, May, August and November. Remaining start date 2026: November 10th. Upcoming start dates 2027: February 23rd, May 25th, August 24th and November 9th.

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
≈ $3,595
Total Program Cost
≈ $4,595
FAFSA Code
Net Price Calculator

Cost of attendance. Registration Fee $100; Books, Kit, Equipment $900; Tuition $3,595; Total Tuition Fee $4,595. The registration fee of $100.00 and the cost of the books & equipment kit are part of the total price and are not refundable after the starting date of classes.

Payment of tuition. The student (or his/her guardian) agrees to pay the school $1,532 the first day of school, and $1,532 the first day of the following month and $1,531 the first day of the third month of training. If you desire another payment option, please set up a meeting with the administration.

Textbooks. We use the Pivot Point Textbooks (retail value): Pivot Point Fundamentals: Nails Coursebook, ISBN 978-1-957642-06-2, $264; Nails Exam Prep, ISBN 978-1-957642-08-6, $97; Nails Study Guide, ISBN 978-1-957642-07-9, $149.

Federal financial aid. Federal student aid is available to qualified students. Those that qualify may be awarded a Pell grant, Direct Subsidized and/or Unsubsidized Stafford loans, and/or Direct Parent Plus loans. In order to be considered for aid, a student must complete a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). When asked for our school code please insert E02178 (Salina Campus). Please understand it takes approximately 10-14 business days from the date you submit your FAFSA® for the school to receive it.

Payment plans. For those of you who do not qualify for financial aid or choose not to, Hays Academy of Hair Design can provide a payment plan to fit your needs. The methods of payment of monies owed to the institution can be cash, check, money order, credit card, Title IV or through non-federal agency or loan programs.

Veterans benefits. The programs at Hays Academy of Hair Design are approved by the Kansas State Approving Agency for use of the GI Bill®. Military spouses, veterans, eligible dependents of deceased or disabled veterans, and active status National Guard and Reserve personnel may qualify for additional aid programs.

Scholarships. Hays Academy of Hair Design offers one $500 scholarship to a senior who will graduate from any Kansas High School. All criteria must be received by May 1st; the recipient will be selected and notified by May 15th. Third-party scholarships may be available to qualified students.

Books, kit and equipment. Students have the option to opt out of having their books, kit and equipment included in the cost of books, kit and equipment in tuition and fees. If the student chooses to opt out, they are responsible for purchasing their own books and kit, which must conform with the items required by each respective program.

Expenses not covered by tuition. Tuition covers all supplies and equipment needed except for the uniform, shoes, three-ring binder, padlock, paper and pens. Other expenses that may be incurred are supplies purchased by the student for personal use or to replace kit items that are destroyed or consumed. In addition, after completion of training, students are required to pay a state licensure and an exam fee.

Net price calculator. For more guidance on determining the cost of tuition, books, meal, and other related expenses, refer to our Net Price Calculator for the Salina Campus.

Curriculum

The Nail Technology curriculum is 350 clock hours. A Nail Technology student shall not work on the public until the student has completed 75 hours of training.

Required Courses

Name
Scientific Concepts (sanitation; chemistry; nails; skin; muscles, nerves, and blood)
Manicuring Skills
Artificial nails
Business practices
State law

Career Outcomes

The official Completion, Placement and Licensure Rates for the 2024 NACCAS Annual Report for the Salina Campus Nail Technology program are: Graduation 100%; Placement 50%; Licensure 100%. (Salina Campus, all programs: Graduation 91.89%; Placement 75.76%; Licensure 100%.)

Our school does not guarantee job placement. We do, however, aid our students in placement whenever possible. We receive inquiries from salons over a wide area and inform students of job opportunities, as they become available.

Nail Technology Occupations.

  • Manicurist
  • Pedicurist
  • Nail Wrap Specialist
  • Artificial Nail Specialist
  • Nail Salon Owner

What to expect as a Hays Academy of Hair Design student

As of 2022, we have collaborated with Fort Hays State University. Students who attend Hays Academy of Hair Design will now be able to attend Fort Hays State University and take a series of business classes: Management Principles, Understanding Personal Finances, Accounting and Taxation, and Social Media Marketing. After students complete and pass all four courses they will receive a Business Essentials Certification. Classes will be held on Monday nights and students who would like to participate by a small fee of less than $200 dollars.

  • Students will receive a Tiger Card (Student ID) giving them discounts throughout the town
  • Students can now live in Fort Hays State University dorms
  • Students will be able to participate in any extracurricular activities the university offers
  • Students will be able to attend any sporting events held at the university

Campus Address

Salina
115 South 5th Street
Salina, KS 67401

Why Accreditation Is Important

Hays Academy of Hair Design is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences (NACCAS); the Salina campus holds additional location accreditation. The school is licensed by the Kansas State Board of Cosmetology and approved by the Kansas Board of Regents.

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

Accreditations

NACCAS

Student Demographics

These are demographics for all students at the Salina Campus (IPEDS, 2024).

Gender Distribution
Women95.7%(44)
Men4.3%(2)
Race/Ethnicity Distribution
Primary Ethnic Group
White
76.1% · 35 students
White76.1% · 35
Hispanic/Latino17.4% · 8
Black/African American2.2% · 1
Asian2.2% · 1
Two or More Races2.2% · 1
American Indian/Alaska Native0% · 0
Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander0% · 0
International Students0% · 0

Testimonials

As a part of the Hays Academy of Hair Design family I would recommend the school to anyone interested in the beauty industry, I have loved coming here every day, and appreciate the staff because they go the extra mile in helping me become a professional in the salon.

Evangel Goossen
Salina Campus

Images

Nail technology student painting a client's nails at Hays Academy of Hair Design
Nail technology student painting a client's nails at Hays Academy of Hair Design
Nail technology student working at a manicure table at Hays Academy of Hair Design
Hays Academy of Hair Design Salina campus building at 115 S 5th St
Styling stations at the Salina campus
Shampoo bowls at the Salina campus
Make-Up Bar at the Salina campus
Pedicure chairs at the Salina campus
Theory classroom at the Salina campus

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Are Hays Academy Of Hair Design Campuses Located?
We have two campuses fully-equipped to give you in-depth training and experience. Both campuses offer both our cosmetology and nail programs, so you can choose the location closest to you! • Hays Campus – 1214 E. 27th St. Hays, Kansas 67601 • Salina Campus – 115 S. 5th St. Salina, Kansas 67401 Explore convenient parking, city amenities, and convenience around either of our locations. No matter which you choose, you will receive the same high-quality service, education, and results.
How Do I Schedule a Tour?
Reach out to the campus you are interested in by giving us a call or filling out a form on our website. From there, we will find a time that works best for you to walk through our facilities, meet the staff, and go over admission requirements together.
Is Hays Academy of Hair Design Accredited?
Yes! Hays Academy of Hair Design is nationally accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS). Our commitment to excellence means exemplifying national standards for a robust education, maximizing job prospects, and providing students with the care and resources they need to thrive—no matter where they are in their career development or application process.
What Does It Mean To Be Accredited?
Accreditation makes it possible for qualified students to participate in federal financial aid programs. Also, achieving accreditation demonstrates that the school in question meets stringent national education standards. By choosing an accredited school, you can move forward in your education confident that the skills and academic structure are held to high standards.
When Do Classes Start?
Classes start at different times throughout the year, so it’s always a good time to reach out and see when you can start your first day of class! In general, our programs often start four times per year during these months: • February • May • August • October
If I Am a Veteran or I Am Unemployed, Do I Qualify for Additional Benefits?
As an accredited school, federal aid is accessible to students who meet financing criteria. There are a number of different programs reserved for individuals in these circumstances. Give us a call for assistance in applying for these benefits, and an admissions director will walk you through the process and extent of the program.
How Do I Apply for Financial Aid?
Go online to submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). Use these codes to better help us see what you may qualify for. • Hays Campus:015944 • Salina Campus: E02178 Filling out the FAFSA® can help determine eligibility for Pell Grants and other types of federal loans.
Will Hays Academy of Hair Design be notified once I have applied for Financial Aid?
Yes, if you use codes 015944 (Hays Campus) or E02178 (Salina Campus) when you apply. It takes approximately two or three weeks from the date that you submit your FAFSA® for Hays Academy of Hair Design to receive it. Upon receiving your information, we will contact you about eligibility information and answer any additional questions you may have about starting cosmetology or nail school.
What Is the Difference Between Pell Grants, Unsubsidized Loans, and Subsidized Loans?
A Pell Grant is a need-based grant that is generally awarded to students who have not yet earned a bachelor’s, graduate, or professional degree. A Pell Grant does not have to be repaid, and offers a unique opportunity for career growth. An Unsubsidized Stafford Loan is available to all eligible students regardless of financial need. Interest begins accruing as soon as the loan is disbursed, and payments often begin 6 months after you leave school. A Subsidized Stafford Loan is available to those who demonstrate financial need. You do not need to pay interest that accrues while you are in school, and similar to an Unsubsidized loan, payments often begin 6 months after you leave school. Visit www.fafsa.gov online for more information, or to submit your FAFSA®.
What Is a Master Promissory Note and Entrance Counseling?
A Master Promissory Note (MPN) is the electronic loan agreement that you will sign if you wish to receive any federal loans. Entrance Counseling is an information session that must be completed online prior to the receipt of any federal loans. Both of these items can be completed online at www.studentaid.gov, with our administrators available to help.
Are All Programs Offered at Both Campuses?
Yes, both nail technology and cosmetology are taught at both campuses. No matter which campus you choose, you are receiving the same high-quality and thorough education. Transit or transfer between campuses is not required for graduation.
Will I Get a Job After Graduation?
Hays Academy has assisted in educating and mentoring many graduates who have gone on to start successful careers upon graduation. Although no school can guarantee employment, there are a number of ways that Hays Academy of Hair Design supports students in achieving careers: • Career Services. Our teams keep active relations with salons in the area and are informed of new salon openings, ongoing opportunities, and job fairs. • Personal Cover Letter and Resume Assistance. We collaborate to optimize your resume, cover letter, and portfolio to be better prepared for interviews with potential employers. • Portfolio Building. We help you learn how to showcase your best work on social media and other platforms. • Networking Opportunities With Local Salons. Meet, engage with, and get to know local employers through our collaborative events such as career fairs. Business Classes. Understanding the fundamentals of business and salon management can assist students in their future careers. We emphasize both theory and practical knowledge, which lends managerial and administrative experience for our students.
What Services Do You Offer in Your School’s Salon?
We have the full list of services and prices of services listed online. If you don’t see the service you want done listed on our website, call us, as it may still be possible! And, all salon services are provided by students under the supervision of licensed professionals, which means you can support our students as you receive a new hairstyle, haircut, manicure, or something else!
How Do I Schedule an Appointment in the Salon?
If you’re ready to schedule an appointment, give either our Hays campus or Salina campus a call or fill out a form! We’ll ask you when you want to set your appointment and what service you’re requesting. We ask that as our students are learning, expect appointments to take longer than a traditional salon appointment. Thanks for your support!
Ready to get started?
Request information about Nail Technology at Salina.
Nail Technology