Wondering if a career in barbering could be right for you? If you want a job where you can use your creativity and be your own boss, our barber program could be your next step. Set yourself up for an exciting and creatively fulfilling future with Pivot Point Academy’s industry-leading education.

A full tuition scholarship proudly sponsored by Wahl Barber Academy. Read more about it
Our 1500-clock hour barber program was designed to create well-rounded barbers in every aspect and to prepare students to compete in the men’s market of grooming. Learn hair cutting, men’s shaving, grooming, and basic skincare, along with all of the skills that give barbers a robust repertoire that is current with the industry trends. Refine your technical skills with earlier hands-on practice, learn business strategy, and become industry-ready through our three-phase program.
- Phase 1: Craftsmanship of Barbering (256 Hours)
Gain a solid foundation in cuts, shaves, trims, facial hair, and color. We have workshops already in Phase 1 so you can put your hands on hair earlier!
- Phase 2: Enhance Craftsmanship of Barbering (640 Hours)
Add styling to your foundational skills by working with models. Choose to extend your hours or keep them the same to create a schedule that works for you!
- Phase 3: Getting Ready for the Shop Life (604 Hours)
Serve guests on the clinic floor and prepare for your state test. Learn the final skills you need to become industry-ready.
The Pivot Point Academy Difference
At Pivot Point Academy, we blur the line between learning and fun. Keep up with today’s latest trends on our industry-leading digital platform, LAB. LAB is an interactive and collaborative online classroom where you can study with industry pros. With engaging activities, a library of skills lessons, practice tests, and more, LAB makes learning current, effective, and fun.
Our school also provides several opportunities for students to hone their skills through participating in real-world community events and outreach activities:
- America’s Beauty Show
- MLB The Original Midwest Tradeshow
- Guest Speakers
- Barber Show Cases
- Barbershop Visits
- Cancer Survivor Beauty and Support Day
Go Beyond: Business Training
Did you know that over one-third of barbers are self-employed? The objective is to gain top technical skills and how to understand money Become industry-ready with our financial literacy training curriculum – MONEY.
Teacher Training Barber
New! Teacher Training Barber available. Enrolling now!

Wahl Barber Academy Our New Campus
Exciting news! Coming soon, pending approval from the IDFPR Division of Professional Regulation. We will soon start classes at our new Campus Wahl Barber Academy, a barber school only. Located near O’Hare Airport and easily accessed from the CTA blue line, the Wahl Barber Academy has assembled a team of leading licensed instructors who demonstrate technical skills and the ability to inspire and motivate students.
Barber, Barber Crossover, and Teacher Training Barber programs are planned to be available for students as full-time and part-time day and evening classes.
Read our progress update report for more information.

Wahl Barber Academy
Barber Student Kit
Welcome to the beginning of your career as a barber. At the start of each barber program, you will get:
- Industry-relevant education that not only prepares you to pass your licensure exam but to have a successful career.
- Access to LAB, an online learning environment that keeps you connected both in and out of the classroom.
- Male mannequins from Pivot Point International, are designed specifically for barbering education to create crisp, clean lines.
- High-quality tools from industry-recognized brands you can use well into your career. Your student kit includes tools like Wahl clipper, trimmer & shaver, 1600-watt Tourmaline Ionic blow dryer, SRC Parker Razor with 100 blades, Styling Razor with 10 blades, professional shears, professional texturizing shears, clips, hand mirror, combs, brushes, apron, cape, neck brush, aluminum spray bottle, color bowl, tint brushes, and more.
- For more hands-on hair, 3 mannequin heads (1 with a beard), 1 slip-on universal head, and 3 hair slip-on (1 female, 1 curly, 1 male) are included in the kit.
View your Barber Student Kit
If desired, you also will receive an optional iPad needed to access our interactive learning platform Learn About Beauty (LAB). Students will also get Pivot Point Academy’s Fundamentals: printed study guide, downloadable eBooks, integrated lesson webbooks, learning connections, interactive video lectures, design decision charts, exam ace, and more.

Already a Licensed Cosmetologist? Check Out Our Crossover Program
If you already have an active Illinois cosmetology license, our crossover program is your fast track for growth. Pivot Point Academy can accept up to 1000 hours toward the state-required 1500 hours. Our barber crossover program offers a multi-level barber education that provides hands-on training in: precision haircutting, color and texture, basic skincare, shaving, and grooming. Graduates will walk away with the skills necessary to successfully build/extend their careers.
You’re In Demand

With more and more men looking to get a relaxing cut and shave, professional barbers are in demand. Career opportunities are as limitless as your imagination. Our program prepares you for several career paths you may find exciting:
- Barbershop Stylist
- Shop Manager/ Owner
- Self-Employed Barber
- Brand Ambassador
- Social Media Influencer
- Traveling Barber
- Educator
If having a job where you can use your creativity, choose your schedule, and follow your entrepreneurial spirit sounds great to you, barbering could be your perfect fit. Prepare for success in whatever endeavor you choose with our fully accredited, hands-on barbering program.
Learn More
