Jonathan BensonIf you’re planning to start a career in the beauty industry, enrolling in one of the top cosmetology schools in Augusta, Georgia, is your first major step. Whether your goal is to become a licensed hairstylist, esthetician, nail technician, or salon owner, choosing the right training institution will shape your skills, confidence, and career opportunities.
Augusta and the surrounding CSRA (Central Savannah River Area) offer several accredited cosmetology schools with varying tuition costs, program structures, and specialties. In this detailed guide, we break down the top 10 cosmetology schools in Augusta and nearby areas, including tuition estimates, program highlights, and what makes each school stand out.
Top 10 Cosmetology Schools In Augusta And Fees
1. Empire Beauty School – Augusta
Empire Beauty School is one of the most recognized names in beauty education nationwide, and its Augusta campus delivers a comprehensive cosmetology program designed to prepare students for Georgia state licensure.
The program typically requires 1,500 training hours, covering hair cutting, coloring, chemical treatments, skincare basics, nail care, and professional development. Students gain real-world experience through supervised salon floor practice with actual clients.
Estimated Tuition & Fees:
Approximately $19,000 – $20,000, excluding books and kits (which may cost an additional $2,500+).
One of the biggest advantages of Empire Beauty School is its strong financial aid support for qualifying students. They also offer flexible scheduling, including full-time and part-time options, which makes it ideal for students balancing work or family commitments.
If you want a nationally recognized beauty school with structured training and career services, Empire is a strong option in Augusta.
2. Georgia Institute of Cosmetology
Located in Augusta, this institute focuses exclusively on beauty education and offers immersive hands-on cosmetology training.
The full cosmetology program meets Georgia’s 1,500-hour requirement and includes:
- Hair design and cutting techniques
- Chemical services and color theory
- Skin care fundamentals
- Nail services
- Salon business skills
Estimated Tuition & Fees:
Around $21,000 – $22,000, with additional costs for books and supplies.
The Georgia Institute of Cosmetology emphasizes practical training and salon readiness. Students spend significant time working in a student salon environment, helping them build confidence before entering the workforce.
This school is ideal for students who want an in-depth, beauty-focused learning environment with strong hands-on exposure.
3. Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology – North Augusta
Although located just across the river in South Carolina, this school serves many Augusta residents due to its proximity.
Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology offers a 1,500-hour cosmetology program with modern facilities and professional-grade equipment. Training includes hair services, skincare, nail services, and business preparation.
Estimated Tuition & Fees:
Approximately $18,000 – $19,000, plus kit and supply costs.
This institution is known for its balanced approach between creative beauty skills and salon business knowledge. If you’re open to crossing state lines for training, this school provides competitive tuition compared to some Augusta-based private academies.
4. Augusta Technical College
For students looking for a more affordable cosmetology program, Augusta Technical College is one of the best options in the area.
As a public technical college, it offers cosmetology programs at significantly lower tuition rates compared to private beauty schools.
Estimated Tuition & Fees:
Roughly $5,000 – $6,500 per year, depending on residency status.
Students receive both classroom instruction and supervised practical training. Because it is a public institution, students may qualify for federal financial aid, HOPE grants (for Georgia residents), and other state funding options.
If affordability is your top priority and you prefer a structured academic setting, Augusta Tech is a highly practical choice.
5. Industry Trade School
Industry Trade School provides career-focused education with flexible learning options. While smaller than national beauty chains, it offers cosmetology and barbering programs tailored to modern industry trends.
Estimated Tuition & Fees:
Varies — prospective students should contact the school directly for updated pricing.
One standout feature is its flexible training structure, which may include hybrid or customized scheduling. This makes it ideal for working adults or aspiring entrepreneurs who need adaptable class hours.
Students who prefer a smaller class environment with personalized attention may find this school appealing.
6. Aiken School of Cosmetology & Barbering
Located in nearby Aiken, South Carolina, this cosmetology and barbering school serves students from the greater Augusta area.
Programs include cosmetology, barbering, and sometimes specialty certifications. The curriculum typically satisfies state licensing requirements and provides hands-on salon training.
Estimated Tuition & Fees:
Usually between $15,000 – $18,000, depending on program choice.
For students willing to commute, this school can provide slightly more affordable tuition compared to some Augusta-based private institutions.
7. Paul Mitchell Partner Schools (Regional Access Option)
While Augusta does not currently have a Paul Mitchell campus directly within the city, many students consider enrolling at a nearby Paul Mitchell Partner School within driving distance.
These schools are known for:
- Trend-focused training
- Brand recognition
- Professional product education
- Strong career placement networks
Estimated Tuition & Fees:
Often between $17,000 – $23,000, depending on location.
If brand prestige and exposure to national beauty networks are important to you, exploring a nearby Paul Mitchell campus may be worthwhile.
8. Regency Beauty Institute (Former Model Reference Programs)
Although Regency Beauty Institute locations have closed nationally, many cosmetology schools in the Augusta region follow similar structured curriculum models once popularized by Regency-style training.
These programs emphasize:
- Fast-track cosmetology education
- High-volume salon floor training
- Career-readiness focus
Tuition varies widely depending on the institution currently offering similar training structures.
9. Local Specialty Esthetics Programs in Augusta
Several local beauty institutions in Augusta offer standalone esthetics or skincare programs separate from full cosmetology training.
These programs typically range between 600–1,000 hours and focus on:
- Facials and skin analysis
- Waxing and hair removal
- Makeup artistry
- Advanced skincare treatments
Estimated Tuition:
Between $3,000 – $10,000, depending on program length and certification level.
If you want to specialize strictly in skincare rather than full cosmetology, these programs may be more cost-effective and time-efficient.
10. Apprenticeship and Salon-Sponsored Training Programs
Some salons in Augusta provide apprenticeship pathways under licensed cosmetologists. While Georgia has strict licensing requirements, apprenticeship-style training may supplement formal education or provide additional hands-on experience.
Costs vary significantly and may sometimes reduce overall educational expenses.
However, always confirm that any apprenticeship aligns with Georgia State Board of Cosmetology licensing standards before enrolling.
Cosmetology Schools in Augusta – Fee Comparison Table
| School | Estimated Tuition | Program Length | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Empire Beauty School – Augusta | $19,000–$20,000 | 1,500 hrs | National brand training |
| Georgia Institute of Cosmetology | $21,000–$22,000 | 1,500 hrs | Immersive hands-on focus |
| Kenneth Shuler – North Augusta | $18,000–$19,000 | 1,500 hrs | Affordable private option |
| Augusta Technical College | $5,000–$6,500/year | Varies | Budget-friendly education |
| Industry Trade School | Varies | Flexible | Smaller class sizes |
| Aiken School of Cosmetology | $15,000–$18,000 | Varies | Regional commuters |
| Paul Mitchell Partner Schools | $17,000–$23,000 | 1,500 hrs | Brand recognition |
| Regency-style Programs | Varies | 1,500 hrs | Fast-track learning |
| Specialty Esthetics Programs | $3,000–$10,000 | 600–1,000 hrs | Skincare focus |
| Apprenticeship Programs | Varies | Flexible | Work-based training |
How to Choose the Best Cosmetology School in Augusta
When deciding where to enroll, consider the following:
- Accreditation and state approval
- Total cost including kits and exam fees
- Financial aid availability
- Student salon experience
- Job placement support
- Schedule flexibility
The cheapest option is not always the best — and the most expensive does not guarantee success. Choose a program that aligns with your career goals, learning style, and financial situation.
Conclusion
Augusta offers multiple cosmetology education pathways — from affordable public college programs to nationally recognized beauty academies. Whether your goal is to work in a high-end salon, start your own beauty business, or specialize in skincare, there’s a cosmetology school in or near Augusta that fits your ambitions.
Before enrolling, schedule campus tours, ask about graduation and licensure rates, and request a detailed breakdown of tuition and additional costs.
Your beauty career starts with the right training — choose wisely and step confidently into the thriving cosmetology industry in Augusta.