
Licensed Cosmetology Program in Portland, OR & Vancouver, WA
Train in hair, skin, and nail services through the Licensed Cosmetology Program at Aveda Institute Portland. This hands-on program prepares you for state licensure and a career in the beauty industry with structured classroom instruction and supervised salon practice.
Accredited training that meets Oregon and Washington state board licensing requirements. This program is designed to prepare students for state licensure in cosmetology and entry into professional beauty careers.
What Will You Learn in the Cosmetology Program
In the Licensed Cosmetology Program at Aveda Institute Portland, you will learn through hands-on instruction and supervised salon and spa practice at your designated campus in Portland, OR or Vancouver, WA. Students develop technical and professional skills for Oregon and Washington state licensing exams and entry-level skincare careers.
Cosmetology Curriculum
The cosmetology curriculum includes hair cutting, styling, coloring, color theory, skincare, nail care, client consultations, and hands-on salon training. Our hybrid program combines instructor-led classes, online coursework, and practical training to prepare students for state board licensing requirements.

Hair Cutting & Styling Training
In our hair cutting & styling courses, learn Aveda-certified haircutting techniques focused on precision and versatility. Training covers haircut design, styling across different hair textures and densities, building practical skills for working with a range of clients in salon settings.

Nails Technician Training
Our nail technician training covers the essentials of manicure, pedicure, and nail care services with an emphasis on nail structure and hygiene. The program includes foundational nail services and gel or shellac applications, preparing you to perform standard treatments in salon and spa settings.

Hair Color Training
Our hair color training teaches Aveda’s color system along with core color theory and application methods. The course covers changing, adjusting, and maintaining hair color, as well as basic chemical services such as perms and relaxers used in salon environments.

Esthetician Training
Esthetician Training includes hands-on instruction in lash extensions, brow lamination, and lash lifts. Learn skin analysis, facial treatments, and body hair removal techniques to provide esthetic services focused on skin care, hygiene, and client treatment procedures.
Cosmetology Program Cost and Enrollment Information
The Cosmetology Program at Aveda Institute Portland is designed to meet state licensing requirements in both Oregon and Washington. Program length and tuition vary by state, with Oregon requiring 1,835 hours and Washington requiring 1,600 hours of training. Total program costs include tuition, registration fees, and student kit fees, providing the tools and education needed for hands-on cosmetology training. A $20 application fee applies for all applicants
Total Cost of Attendance details can be found here: COA Budget
Training is available at both our Portland, Oregon and Vancouver, Washington campuses. Students train in a professional salon and spa environment with licensed instructors.
Category: |
Oregon |
Washington |
| Hours: | 1835 | 1600 |
| Total cost: | $23,900 | $20,800 |
| Inclusions: |
Registration fee, kit fee, and tuition |
Registration fee, kit fee, and tuition |
| Application Fee: | $20 | $20 |

What Career Paths are in the Beauty Industry?
Career paths in the industry include opportunities for graduates eligible to apply for Oregon and Washington state cosmetology licensing exams. After licensure, graduates can work in salons, spas, media, education, or independent beauty services and related professional roles.
Licensed Cosmetology Careers:
- Salon Stylist
- Salon Owner
- Salon Manager
- Master Stylist
- Color Specialist
- Hair Extension Specialist
- Curly Hair Specialist
- Bridal Stylist
- Personal Stylist
- Makeup Artist
- Lash and Brow Specialist
- Fashion, Runway, and Event Stylist
- Film, Television, and Theatre Stylist
- Editorial and Advertising Stylist
- Brand Educator / Platform Artist
- Independent / Freelance Beauty Professional
Cosmetology Program FAQs
Have questions about the cosmetology program? Get answers about curriculum, scheduling, hybrid learning, salon training, enrollment, and licensing requirements. Book a tour to meet with a representative and learn more. Review our Admissions Process before your visit.
How long is the Cosmetology program?
The Esthiology program requires 1835 hours in Oregon and 1600 hours in Washington to meet state licensing requirements.
What can you do with a Cosmetology license?
Graduates are eligible for licensure in the state where they completed training in entry-level careers in salons, spas, or as freelance hair professionals.
Do I need experience to enroll in beauty school?
No prior experience is required. Programs are designed to teach foundational skills from the beginning, covering theory, hands-on practice, and safety procedures needed to start training in all of our programs.