Cosmetology Schools in Nebraska

Browse our directory of cosmetology schools in Nebraska, or skip ahead to learn about the state's cosmetology licensing requirements and job outlook.

How to Become a Cosmetologist in Nebraska

You want to spend your career creating, interacting with people, and making a difference—which is why cosmetology is the perfect choice for you.

With tons of diverse employment options, cosmetology can make the most of your talents.

State License Requirements

Done with your training? You're almost there! The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services is your next step. They verify your 2,100 hours and schedule your skills exams. You need a passing written exam score and a passing skills exam score to become fully licensed.

Education Details

Beauty schools are located all over Nebraska, providing plenty of options for the aspiring beauty guru. To become a licensed cosmetologist, you need to complete at least 1,800 hours of training at an accredited school. While there may be some differences in what's taught at each school, all Nebraska beauty schools must tackle the following core topics.

What You May Study in Cosmetology School

• Permanent waving and chemical relaxing
• Facials, including eyebrow arching, waxing, and facial massage
• Haircutting
• Hairstyling, including pin curl formations, rollers, finger waving, thermal curling, braiding, and combouts
• Manicuring and pedicuring
• Artificial nails
• Shampoos, conditioners, and scalp treatments
• Hair coloring
• Nebraska cosmetology law
• Rules and policies
• Ethics and grooming
• Reception skills
• Cosmetology chemistry

Practical experience builds the foundation of your career. Use this time to get feedback, improve your technique, and learn how to communicate effectively with customers.

License Renewal

Licenses for cosmetologists and cosmetology instructors expire on December 31 of even-numbered years. Electrologists must renew by July 31 of odd-numbered years. Esthetics licenses expire on the last day of September in even-numbered years. Nail technicians have to renew by December 31 of odd-numbered years. Late fees of $25 to $75 are assessed if you renew your license after the expiration date. Cosmetologists pay a $118 renewal fee, as do estheticians, electrologists, nail technicians, and permanent makeup artists. The fee is $100 for massage therapists. Nebraska requires eight hours of continuing education to renew any license.

Nebraska Cosmetology Careers

Nebraska's cosmetology industry is growing. From 2016 through 2026, O*Net predicts an 8% increase in cosmetology jobs in Nebraska (2019). Currently, the average salary for a Nebraska cosmetologist is $24,220 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2020).

Once you get your foot in the door, you have plenty of options to explore in the beauty industry. As a cosmetologist, you can devote your time to specific services, such as hair coloring, haircutting, or special event hairstyling. You can even branch out into other areas of cosmetology, such as nail technology and skin care. With experience and time, you may eventually use your skills to go into training or management.

Contact the Nebraska State Board of Cosmetology

Cosmetology in Nebraska means that you are part of a group of professionals adding to a cosmopolitan wave of style throughout the state. Gaining this status means going through a lengthy process of education. These following resources are where one starts.

Professional Beauty Association
Associated Hair Professionals