Best Barber Schools In Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania 2025

By BestBarberSchool Editorial Team
Published January 15, 2025
5 min readUpdated February 28, 2025

Exploring Barber Schools In Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania

Barbering is a skilled trade that not only allows individuals to express their creativity but also provides a pathway to a rewarding career in the beauty industry. Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, is an ideal location to pursue a barber program, thanks to its rich history of skilled trades, supportive community, and growing demand for grooming services. The city offers a unique blend of a supportive environment for budding barbers, with access to competitive training programs that equip students with the necessary skills to excel in this profession.

Wilkes-Barre is experiencing a resurgence in its economy, contributing to a robust job market. By choosing a barber program here, students can benefit from a network of local salons, barbershops, and industry professionals keen on nurturing new talent. Additionally, the city's cultural diversity and vibrant community add dynamic dimensions to barber training, providing practical experience in serving varied client needs.

Investing in a barber program in Wilkes-Barre can set a solid foundation, enabling graduates to build a successful career while enjoying a fulfilling skill set that meets the grooming needs of their communities and beyond.

Best Barber Schools Near Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania

Below are the top ranked barber schools in the surrounding areas of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania

Address: 800 Allegheny Ave, Pittsburgh,Pennsylvania, Allegheny County, 15233-1895
In-State Tuition: $7,560
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,340
Full-time Enrollment: 10,451
Graduation Rate: 23%
Admission Rate: N/A
Programs Offered: 1
Available Barber Degree Programs:
Barbering
Barber Degrees: Certificate
Online Barber Degrees Offered: None
Address: 201 West King Street, Martinsburg,West Virginia, Berkeley County, 25401

Common Admission Requirements For Barber SchoolsIn Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania

To enroll in barber schools in Wilkes-Barre, prospective students generally need to meet certain admission criteria:

  • Minimum Age Requirement: Most programs require applicants to be at least 16 or 18 years old, depending on the institution.

  • High School Diploma or GED: Graduating from high school or obtaining a General Educational Development (GED) certificate is typically mandatory.

  • Prerequisite Coursework: While formal coursework may not always be required, having a background in cosmetology or related fields is beneficial. Some schools may encourage taking classes in business or marketing to prepare for entrepreneurship.

  • Application Form: Students must complete an application form that can sometimes be found on the school’s website, which may include personal information, educational background, and career goals.

  • Interview: Some programs may require an in-person interview to gauge the applicant’s interest and suitability for a career in barbering.

  • Background Check: Certain institutions may require a criminal background check, especially if they have practical training components.

  • Financial Information: Applicants might need to submit financial information for scholarship or financial aid considerations.

Meeting these admission requirements prepares students for the educational journey ahead and helps ensure that they are committed to pursuing a career in barbering.

Cost & Financial Aid Options For Barber Schools In Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania

The cost of enrolling in barber schools in Wilkes-Barre varies significantly based on the program and its length. Generally, students can expect the following:

  • Tuition Range: Barber program tuition ranges from $7,000 to $20,000, depending on the school, location, program size, and duration (typically 10 months to 2 years).

  • Additional Costs: Students should budget for supplies such as tools (shears, clippers), uniforms, books, and licensing fees, which can add an additional $1,500 to $3,000.

Financial aid resources are widely available to assist students in covering these costs:

  • Federal Financial Aid: Students may qualify for federal loans and grants through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Eligibility depends on financial need and may also consider household income.

  • State Grants: Pennsylvania offers specific state grants for students enrolled in approved barber programs.

  • Scholarships: Many barber schools offer scholarships based on merit or need, providing an opportunity for students to reduce their overall financial burden.

  • Payment Plans: Some schools offer flexible payment plans allowing students to pay tuition in installments rather than a lump sum.

  • Work-Study Programs: Certain institutions may provide options for part-time employment opportunities on campus to help fund education while gaining industry experience.

Understanding program costs and available financial aid options is key to planning a successful education in barbering.

Barber Salary in Pennsylvania
Annual Median: $40,490
Hourly Median: $19.47
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
PercentileAnnual Salary
10th$22,180
25th$28,250
Median$40,490
75th$46,370
90th$48,260

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Barber Schools In Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania

  1. What can I expect to learn in barber school?

    • You will learn hair cutting, shaving, styling, color treatments, and customer service skills.
  2. How long do barber programs take to complete?

    • Most programs last between 10 months to 2 years, depending on full-time or part-time enrollment.
  3. Do I need a state license to work as a barber?

    • Yes, graduating from an accredited barber school and passing a state licensing examination is required.
  4. Are there evening or weekend classes available?

    • Many schools offer flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend classes.
  5. What is the average salary for a barber in Wilkes-Barre?

    • On average, barbers in Wilkes-Barre can earn between $30,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on experience and clientele.
  6. Can I get financial aid for barber school?

    • Yes, various federal, state, and institutional aid options are available for students.
  7. Is prior experience required to enter barber school?

    • No prior experience is typically required, but a passion for grooming and customer service is essential.
  8. Do barber schools provide job placement assistance?

    • Many schools offer job placement services and help connect graduates with potential employers.
  9. Can I open my own barber shop after completing my training?

    • Yes, many graduates go on to open their own barbershops after gaining experience and obtaining a business license.
  10. What’s the difference between a barber and a cosmetologist?

    • Barbers primarily focus on men's grooming and haircuts, while cosmetologists have a broader scope, including hair, nails, and skin care services.