Delaware is home to a range of cosmetology schools that prepare students for rewarding careers in hair, skin, nails, makeup, and salon management. Whether you’re looking for hands-on training, apprenticeship opportunities, or specialized workshops, this guide covers the top 15 cosmetology schools in Delaware, their fees, and what sets each program apart.

Top 15 Cosmetology Schools In Delaware And Fees

1. Paul Mitchell The School – Delaware

Location: Newark, DE

Paul Mitchell The School is one of Delaware’s most respected cosmetology academies. The program includes 1,500 hours of comprehensive training, covering haircutting, coloring, styling, makeup application, and skincare. Students also learn client management and salon business skills, preparing them for state licensure.

Fees:

• Tuition: ~$17,225
• Supplies: ~$3,300
• Total: ~$20,500–$21,500
• Program Length: ~11 months

This school emphasizes hands-on experience with real clients, ensuring graduates leave ready for the salon floor.

2. Delaware Learning Institute of Cosmetology

Location: Dagsboro, DE

This institute focuses on practical and theoretical training in cosmetology, esthetics, barbering, and nail technology. Students gain proficiency in hair treatments, coloring, styling, and client interactions.

Fees:

• Tuition: ~$20,250
• Supplies: ~$2,500
• Total: ~$22,750
• Program Length: ~13 months

The institute is ideal for students seeking a structured program with a strong focus on salon readiness.

3. Schilling-Douglas School of Hair Design

Location: Newark, DE

Schilling-Douglas offers a 1500-hour cosmetology program that covers hair design, chemical treatments, nails, makeup, and basic esthetics. The curriculum combines classroom instruction with hands-on training.

Fees:

• Tuition: ~$14,000–$18,000
• Supplies: Varies

It’s a long-standing school with strong ties to the local salon community, providing networking opportunities for graduates.

4. The Salon Professional Academy – Delaware (TSPA)

Location: Dagsboro, DE

TSPA emphasizes small class sizes and individualized training. The curriculum includes cosmetology fundamentals, hair design, makeup, esthetics, and salon management.

Fees:

• Tuition: ~$17,000–$20,000
• Program Length: 1,500 hours

Students benefit from career services such as job placement support and resume building.

5. Hair Academy School of Barbering & Beauty

Location: Newark, DE

Hair Academy provides training in both cosmetology and barbering, giving students versatile skills in cutting, coloring, and styling for all clients.

Fees:

• Tuition: ~$11,000–$15,000
• Supplies: Additional

This school is suitable for students seeking an affordable route to state licensure without compromising hands-on experience.

6. All In The Wrist Barber Academy

Location: Smyrna, DE

This academy blends barbering with cosmetology education. Students develop skills in men’s grooming while learning core cosmetology services.

Fees:

• Tuition: ~$15,000–$20,000

Graduates gain flexibility to work in traditional salons or barber shops.

7. Vocational High School Cosmetology Programs

Location: Various, DE

High schools such as Hodgson and Delcastle Technical High School offer cosmetology programs for students aged 16+, introducing foundational skills in hair, nails, and skincare.

Fees: Free or included in tuition

While not fully qualifying for licensure, these programs provide early career exposure and hands-on experience.

8. Apprenticeship & Salon Mentorship Programs

Location: Statewide, DE

Several salons in Wilmington, Newark, and other cities offer apprenticeships that count toward the 1,500 required hours for licensure.

Fees: Negotiated or sometimes paid

Apprenticeships allow students to earn hours while learning real-world salon operations, making them ideal for those who prefer hands-on experience over classroom learning.

9. Del-Mar-Va Beauty Academy (Nearby Option)

Location: Salisbury, MD

This academy attracts Delaware residents due to its proximity and full 1,500-hour program. Courses cover cosmetology essentials, including color, styling, and skincare.

Fees:

• Tuition: ~$18,825
• Supplies: ~$3,113
• Total: ~$22,425
• Program Length: ~50 weeks

An alternative for students seeking additional program availability or a different environment.

10. Dawn Career Institute

Location: Newark, DE

Dawn Career Institute provides complementary beauty certificates in esthetics, skin care, and cosmetology-related specialties. While not a full cosmetology license program, these certificates enhance skills for professional advancement.

Fees: Varies by program

Great for professionals looking to specialize in esthetics or niche beauty services.

11. Specialty Workshops & Short Courses

Various Delaware providers offer workshops in lash extensions, advanced makeup, and salon management.

Fees: ~$500–$3,000

These programs are excellent for licensed cosmetologists seeking to expand their skill set or offer niche services.

12. Adult Education & Continuing Programs

Adult learning centers provide preparatory and continuing education courses for prospective cosmetologists.

Fees: ~$500–$1,500

Useful for students who want to strengthen theory knowledge before full enrollment.

13. Online & Hybrid Cosmetology Prep

Some online programs offer theory, exam prep, and business training, complementing hands-on training required for licensure.

Fees: ~$300–$1,000

These programs reduce classroom time and focus on conceptual mastery.

14. Community College Support Courses

Delaware Technical Community College offers courses in salon business, marketing, and management for cosmetology students or salon owners.

Fees: Per credit

These courses help students learn the business side of running a salon.

15. Independent Licensed Salon Mentorship Credits

Individual licensed salon owners offer mentorship hours that count toward Delaware’s cosmetology license.

Fees: Negotiated

Provides direct industry exposure, networking, and real-world experience.

Comparison Table – Delaware Cosmetology Schools

School	Location	Program Type	Estimated Total Cost
Paul Mitchell The School	Newark	1,500-hr Cosmetology	~$20,500–$21,500
Delaware Learning Institute	Dagsboro	1,500-hr Cosmetology	~$22,750
Schilling-Douglas School	Newark	1,500-hr Cosmetology	~$14,000–$18,000
TSPA	Dagsboro	1,500-hr Cosmetology	~$17,000–$20,000
Hair Academy	Newark	Cosmetology & Barber	~$11,000–$15,000
All In The Wrist	Smyrna	Cosmetology/Barber	~$15,000–$20,000
Vocational HS Programs	Various	Cosmetology Pathway	Free
Del-Mar-Va Beauty Academy	Salisbury, MD	1,500-hr Cosmetology	~$22,425
Dawn Career Institute	Newark	Beauty Certificate	Varies
Specialty Workshops	Statewide	Focused Skills	~$500–$3,000
Adult Ed & CE	Statewide	Prep/Support	~$500–$1,500
Online/Hybrid Prep	Online	Theory/Exam	~$300–$1,000
Salon Mentorship	Statewide	Apprenticeship	Negotiated
Community College	Statewide	Business/Marketing	Per Credit
Esthetics/Skincare Programs	Various	Specialization	~$9,000–$12,000+

Conclusion

Delaware offers diverse cosmetology training options ranging from traditional beauty schools to apprenticeships and specialized workshops. Paul Mitchell Delaware, Delaware Learning Institute, and Schilling-Douglas provide the most comprehensive paths to licensure, while smaller academies and mentorships offer flexible and affordable alternatives.

When choosing a program, consider your budget, career goals, learning style, and whether you prefer hands-on training, classroom learning, or a hybrid approach. With the right program, you can launch a successful career in Delaware’s growing beauty industry.