CBBC Career College
Cosmetology – Hairdressing
Express Yourself With a Cosmetology - Hairdressing Program
Halifax
Program Length:
41 Weeks
Program Hours:
1500
Sydney
Program Length:
41 Weeks
Program Hours:
1500
Upcoming Start Dates
Halifax:
September 2, 2026
February 16, 2027
Sydney:
September 8, 2026
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Express Yourself With a Cosmetology - Hairdressing Program
Are you the go-to person among your friends and family for hairstyle advice? Do you revel in the joy of helping others look and feel their best? Are you passionate about the intersection of beauty and art, using it as a medium to express your artistic side while uplifting others?
If you’ve always yearned for a career that allows you to break free from the conventional, embrace uniqueness, and explore expressive possibilities, the Cosmetology – Hairdressing program (Hair Stylist program) at CBBC Career College is your gateway. Unleash your creativity, earn your Cosmetology diploma, and embark on a journey that goes beyond the ordinary.
Our program is designed to prepare you not just for a job but for a thriving career as a hairstylist across the province. We ensure you are career-ready and equipped to obtain your cosmetology license through the Cosmetology Association of Nova Scotia. Delivered by industry experts, our curriculum blends theory with hands-on workshops, keeping you abreast of the latest trends in the beauty industry.
Experience the beauty world firsthand with practical training in our CBBC Training Salon & Spa in Sydney, Nova Scotia, and our Regency Training Salon & Spa in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Work with top-notch products such as Redken, Reuzel, Quinessence, CND Nail Polish, and Bodyography.
Your journey towards a rewarding career in Cosmetology – Hairdressing starts now. Join the program that earned CBBC Career College recognition with a silver award in the Beauty & Hairdressing Schools category by CommunityVotes Halifax! Let your passion for transforming lives through beauty find its professional outlet at CBBC. Enrol today and make your mark in the vibrant world of cosmetology.
Want to Know if We're a Good Fit for You?
Drop in at our campuses Monday to Thursday to check out what CBBC Career College has to offer. Our group tours let you see our campus and learn about our programs and services up close. They're a great way to get your questions answered and figure out if learning with us matches what you're looking for. Don't miss your chance to explore and see if our place feels right for you!
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Job Market
Hairdressers and cosmetologists often work in salons, spas, beauty centers, and wellness facilities. Alternatively, they have opportunities for specialization, allowing them to cater to specific client needs and interests. This may include specializing in bridal hairstyling, creative colour techniques, men’s grooming, or skin care.
Salary Information
Nova Scotia
Average Wage ($/hr) – $15.20
High Wage ($/hr) – $19.82
Canada Wide
Average Wage ($/hr) – $17.19
High Wage ($/hr) – $29.63
Program Outline
Please click on the course title to see the course description.
Students will learn through both theory and extensive practice to enhance or create a style by the use of hair additions. Hair additions will include not only wigs and hairpieces but also braiding and braid extensions. Included in this course will be instruction on proper client consultation, and the proper and safe handling of all supplies, equipment, and tools related to these procedures.
Students will be introduced to the planning and management of one’s own career and career goals, including finding career opportunities, navigating through the salon/spa business industry, ownership & operation, developing life skills & human relations, being introduced to professional development, communications, job search & resume building, job skills, sales, and marketing.
In this module, students will learn the theory and skills applications of performing a chemical service that alters the texture of the hair. Students will be introduced to tools, products, and consultation techniques that are used for creating perms and for relaxing and straightening hair.
Students in this course will gain an understanding of the Basics of Chemistry and its relevance in Cosmetology. Some of the topics that will be covered in both theory and clinical settings will be in the areas of reviewing the PH Scale, forming a deeper understanding of Matter, and receiving instruction in Chemistry within the field of Cosmetology and Aesthetics.
Students in this course will receive training in, and gain knowledge of, the Cosmetology Association of Nova Scotia Act and Bylaws. Students will become familiar with the licensing process and the overall objectives of the Association.
Students will gain an understanding of the Basics of Electricity and its relevance in Cosmetology. Some of the topics that will be covered in both theory and practical will include electrical current and their types, electrical measurements, and electrical safety & safety devices.
This course will focus on giving students a foundational understanding of the building blocks of the human body and how it relates to Aesthetics & Cosmetology. Topics covered will include cells - function, structure & reproduction, types of tissue & function, major organs and their functions, and names of the body systems and their functions.
Students in this course will receive theoretical and practical training in the applications of scalp and hair care, shampooing and conditioning - including selection and procedures. Some of the topics covered include learning about the supplies and equipment used in hair and scalp care, hair and scalp conditions, scalp massage and pre-brushing, procedures and draping, product selection and functions of shampoos, conditioners, rinses, and treatments.
This course will provide both theory and practical training in the application of chemical services that will alter the colour of the hair. Students in this course will learn techniques in client consultation, the proper use and safe handling of supplies, tools, and equipment. Various special colouring effects will be taught.
Students will gain a theoretical understanding of, and practical experience in, the principles and techniques of haircutting. Learners will be given training in the safe use and handling of supplies, equipment, and tools, and will then learn how to properly use those tools to apply basic haircuts by following cutting techniques, guidelines, and procedures.
Students will gain an understanding of the principles and composition of hair design for use in client consultation and achieving professional results. This course will focus on the following areas of study: design elements, design principles, client consultation, face shape, profile, head shape, designing for males and other genders - facial hair, mustaches, beards and sideburns.
In this module, students will learn how to combine form and texture to dress and arrange the hair for all hair types/textures when creating a hairstyle. After the students learn the safe and proper use of styling tools, supplies, and equipment, they will go on to apply their theoretical knowledge into practical skills by practicing and demonstrating wet styling, thermal styling, and long hair styling. Techniques will begin from client consultation to comb-out and finishing.
Students taking this module will gain an understanding of the foundations of Trichology - the branch of medical and cosmetic study and practice concerned with the hair and scalp. Some of the topics covered will include hair structure and its growth and composition, hair and scalp evaluation and analysis, disorders of the hair, disorders of the scalp, hair texture, density, porosity, and elasticity, and hair growth patterns.
The College will have special industry-leading guest speakers come in and deliver information relevant to industry trends, techniques, tools, and products. Opportunities may also exist to visit industry-specific shows/demonstrations. Lab time will also be allocated at the end of the program to the writing of final exams.
Students will receive both practical and theoretical training in First Aid/CPR, WHMIS, and Occupational Health & Safety.
The OJT program is a program extension that is applicable for all students. A decision of participation in the OJT program will be exercised only by the Cosmetology instructors’ recommendation, and on a case-by-case basis, in accordance with the Student Contract obligations, successful completion of the Course Outline to date, Private Career Colleges Act, Dept. of Labour & Advanced Ed., Act respecting CANS, the Labour Standards Act and any other relevant contributing factors that may arise regarding a specific student and the OJT program. OJT can take place at any Salon/Spa in NS currently registered and in good standing with the Cosmetology Association of NS. The host must agree to complete the training evaluation forms and have Master Cosmetologist(s) who are willing to supervise and positively encourage the skills and abilities of the OJT participant. OJT will take place over a maximum of 4 weeks to complete the 100 hours of training. Program participants who do not have approved OJT placement may continue their course of study for 100 hours in the Cosmetology School in which they are enrolled.
In this professional Life Skills module, students will develop foundations for maintaining beauty and wellness in relation to self, and the hairdressing and beauty industry. Students will delve into the subject areas of hygiene, ergonomics, physical presentation, stress management, rest and relaxation, and professional image.
Students enrolled in this module will receive theory and practical skills training in the areas of infection control and universal precautions, including infection control principles and practices, and provincial guidelines for cleaning and sterilization, microbiology and bacteriology, viruses, parasites, infection and immunity.
Admissions Requirements
Admission Requirements:
Canadian High School diploma or equivalent. CBBC Career College Admissions Team uses the Wonderlic assessment tool.
For Mature Students:
If you don’t have a High School Diploma, we have admissions options specifically for you depending on which province you are enrolling. Please contact us to see how our Admissions Team can help you achieve your new career.
Language Requirements:
All students need to meet or exceed the language requirements set by CBBC Career College. Click here to learn more.
This program is an excellent fit for:
- Someone who likes to work with their hands on a daily basis.
- Someone who likes helping others feel and look their best.
- Someone who enjoys keeping up with the latest trends in beauty.
Why choose the Cosmetology – Hairdressing program?
- Several different opportunities for employment, including self-employment, full-time or part-time.
- Become career-ready for a growing field that will always be needed.
- Get lots of hands-on practice to nurture your expertise.
Save time & money
- Become job-ready in less than a year with career-focused programs.
- Learn only what you need - practical, in-demand skills that employers are looking for.
- Hands-on learning that prepares you for day one on the job.
- Start your career sooner - no need to spend 3–4 years in school to land a well-paying job.
- Access lifetime career support, with experts dedicated to helping you find employment anytime.
Your future is our priority
- Start right away with frequent intakes - no long wait time (even more most in-demand programs)
- Small class sizes and a student-focused approach, with personalized support from experienced instructors.
- Access lifetime career support, with experts dedicated to helping you find employment anytime.
Career-relevant education
- Train for real-world careers with programs designed to make you job-ready.
- Prepare for in-demand roles with strong hiring opportunities.
- Graduate with hands-on practicum experience - so you enter the job market with both skills and experience.
- Benefit from strong employer partnerships and connections to organizations actively hiring our graduates.
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What People Are Saying
The environment is amazing. At the end, it starts to feel a little bit like a salon, but that's because you're ready.
Claudia Fortuna
Cosmetology-Hairdressing
