Hair Technician

Become a Licensed Hair Technician at Riverland

Riverland’s Hair Technician Program is a comprehensive and specialized program that provides training in the art and science of hair care. You’ll gain the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career as a licensed hair technician in Minnesota.

Hair technicians perform personal services for the cosmetic care of hair, including cutting, styling, and chemical services such as permanent waving, relaxing, and smoothing.

What You’ll Learn

Students in the Hair Technician program receive training in the following areas:

• Core Curriculum: Shampooing, conditioning, haircutting, styling, haircoloring, anatomy, hair and scalp disorders, product chemistry, electricity, and Minnesota rules and regulations.
• Hands-On Training: Practice on mannequins and classmates before working with clients in the student salon under licensed instructor supervision.
• Hair Care and Maintenance: Learn techniques for treating different hair types, textures, and conditions.
• Haircoloring and Chemical Treatments: Training in permanent color, lightening, chemical relaxing, and safe chemical application.
• Haircutting and Styling: Precision cutting, layering, texturizing, and styling for a variety of looks and occasions.
• Client Communication: Build professional consultation and customer service skills.
• Safety and Sanitation: Learn infection control practices and Minnesota regulations for salon safety.
• Salon Management: Understand scheduling, customer service, and business operations of a salon.

Hands-On Experience

Hands-on training is a key part of this program. After completing preclinical work, you’ll gain real-world experience by working with clients in Riverland’s student salon under the supervision of licensed instructors. This helps build confidence and prepares you for your career.

Licensing Requirements

To become licensed in Minnesota, students must complete a minimum of 900 hours in a licensed cosmetology program, including:

• 300 hours: Preclinical instruction in anatomy, hair and scalp properties, chemistry, electricity, safety, and Minnesota laws and rules.
• 300 hours: Hair cutting and styling, including analysis, conditioning, shaping, and nonchemical straightening.
• 300 hours: Chemical services, including coloring, lightening, permanent waving, straightening, and safety procedures.

Applicants must be at least 17 years old and pass a practical skills test, general theory test, written practical test, and Minnesota Laws and Rules exam.

Scholarships

Scholarships to Support Your Education – Riverland offers scholarships to help you pay for Hair Technician. These scholarships can lower your out of pocket costs and make it easier to start your career.

View current scholarship opportunities and deadlines.