Is Cosmetology School Right for You?

When did your love for beauty and creativity begin? Maybe you tried on your mom’s lipstick or spent hours perfecting your doll’s hair. If that passion is still going strong, cosmetology school may be right for you. Explore our program, then book a tour at our Royal Oak or Taylor campus.

  • Nationally accredited by NACCAS and licensed by the State of Michigan
  • Hair, skin, nail, and makeup training in one 1,500-hour program
  • Hands-on experience with real clients in our student salon
  • Day and evening classes at two Michigan campuses

1,500 Clock Hours

Complete training built for the Michigan State Board exam.

Day or Evening Classes

Pick a schedule that fits around work, family, and everything else.

Two Campus Locations

Train close to home at our Royal Oak or Taylor campus.

Why Choose David Pressley School of Cosmetology?

Since 1959, David Pressley School of Cosmetology has prepared students for careers in the beauty industry. Our nationally accredited school offers an updated curriculum taught by qualified instructors, with owners who stay actively involved in your education. You’ll learn in a supportive environment where classmates cheer each other on.

What You’ll Learn

Cosmetology Program Curriculum

Our 1,500-clock-hour program blends classroom theory with hands-on practice in hair, skin, nails, and makeup, giving you a well-rounded foundation for your career.

Haircutting & Hairstyling
  • Hairdressing and haircutting techniques
  • Hairstyling and finishing
  • Scalp and hair treatments
  • Practice on mannequins and classmates

Student adding foils to hair

Hair Color & Chemical Services
  • Hair coloring
  • Chemical hair restructuring
  • Applied chemistry
  • Safe product selection and application

Skin & Makeup
  • Facials and skin care services
  • Makeup application
  • Client consultation for skin services
  • Skin care product knowledge

Nail Care
  • Manicuring
  • Pedicuring
  • Artificial nails
  • Nail care sanitation and safety

Student washing hair

Health, Safety & Sanitation
  • Sanitation and patron protection
  • Disinfection and personal hygiene standards
  • Applied anatomy
  • Safety practices built into every service

Business & Client Services
  • Best business practices
  • Customer service
  • Live client services under instructor supervision
  • State Board exam preparation

Start Your Journey NowSchedule Your Tour

See What Our Students Have To Say

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"I am currently an esthetician student at David Pressley. So far I love the program, staff and my colleagues. The class size is relatively small so it feels intimate. Each student is able to get ample observation and assistance this way! I feel like I have already learned so much and I am confident that I will be well prepared for a career in esthetics after completing the program! I would recommend this school to anyone looking for a quality education in esthetics or cosmetology!"

Shelby L.

Shelby L.

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"I chose David Pressley after touring multiple schools and meeting all sorts of people. I found David Pressley to have better pricing, they use great skin and makeup products. The staff is also extremely helpful, organized, and kind! Today is my 3rd day here and I know I made the right choice!"

Allison M.

Allison M.

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"David Pressley has been an excellent school of cosmetology for me. The staff has been very friendly and caring when it came down to my education. The instructors pushed me to be the best that I can be. We went to a show in Chicago where we got to explore and experience firsthand how the industry works! What better way to learn!! What I enjoyed most about this school is the diverse cultures. I would recommend this school to anyone interested in fulfilling a cosmetology career in the future!"

Oumy Ndiaye.

Oumy Ndiaye

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"I would recommend this school to anyone who wants to pursue a career in esthetics or cosmetology! The teachers are amazing & everything is hands-on!"

Cortney Robin.

Cortney Robin.

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"I attended David Pressley for my cosmetology license and my instructor's license. I currently teach here, and I love this school! The staff and students are so amazing and talented!"

Alexandra Burris.

Alexandra Burris.

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"Amazing school, teachers go out of their way to show students the proper and cleanest way to aesthetics!"

Jenelle Hess.

Jenelle Hess.

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"Amazing school, teachers go out of their way to show students the proper and cleanest way to aesthetics!"

Jenelle Hess.

Jenelle Hess.

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"David Pressley opened up a lot of opportunities for me and taught me a ton! The teachers are great, and everybody helps each other. I am so grateful to have been able to come to this school. I would recommend this for learning cosmetology to any beginners!"

Cassie.

Cassie.
Financial Aid

Financial Aid for Those Who Qualify

As an accredited school, David Pressley participates in federal financial aid programs and offers payment plans to help make your education accessible. Our financial aid team will walk you through your options, starting with the FAFSA.

Explore Financial Aid

  • Federal Pell Grants
  • Federal Direct Loans
  • Payment plans through the school
  • William T. Pressley Scholarship

Not Sure Which Program to Choose?Take Our Quiz

Life After Graduation

Your Future as a Cosmetologist

Our program prepares you to sit for the Michigan State Board of Cosmetology exam. Our team can also help you find employment opportunities, prepare your resume, and practice for interviews.

Talk to Admissions →

  • Hairstylist or Cosmetologist
  • Makeup Artist
  • Nail Technician
  • Skin Care Specialist
  • Salon Manager or Owner

Cosmetology Program FAQs

Have questions? Here are answers to the ones we hear most often.

How much does cosmetology school cost?

The cost of our cosmetology program may vary based on the start date, financial aid options, and other factors. The estimated cost of attendance is:

  • Tuition: $19,000
  • Books and kit: $850
  • Registration fee: $150

For a total of $19,000. We pride ourselves on keeping our tuition affordable so our students get the best value for their money. You’ll find our tuition rate is very competitive.

How can I pay for cosmetology school?

Financial aid is available to those who qualify. Don’t let finances hold you back from your dreams! There are many options available. We participate in financial aid programs, including the Pell Grant and Stafford Loan programs. You can speak to our financial aid team to learn more about your financial aid and payment options.

What is the schedule for your cosmetology program?

We offer both day and evening classes to suit your schedule:

Days: Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.
Evenings: Monday through Thursday from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.

Please note that you may need to attend some weekend classes to complete your training. We also offer six start dates throughout the year, so you can choose a schedule and starting time that works for you. Talk to our admissions team to learn more.

When do cosmetology classes start?

Upcoming 2026 Cosmetology Start Dates:

Day Program

Taylor: November 9

Next 2027 Start Dates

Day Program

  • Royal Oak: January 11, April 19, July 26, November 1
  • Taylor: February 8, May 10, August 9, November 8

Evening Program

  • Royal Oak: March 15, September 13
  • Taylor: March 1, September 14

Start dates are subject to change and may vary based on availability. Our admissions team can help you find the next available start date and schedule that fits your goals.

How long does it take to get your cosmetology license in Metro Detroit?

To become a licensed cosmetologist in Michigan, you must complete 1500 clock hours of approved training and pass the state licensing exam.

The time it takes to complete those hours can vary depending on your schedule and attendance. Students attending full-time may complete their training sooner than those attending evening classes.

After completing your training, you can sit for for the Michigan State Board exam. Licensure is determined by the state and is not guaranteed.

How is the cosmetology program structured?

The program is divided into two phases to help you build your skills step-by-step:

  • Junior Phase (first 350 hours): You’ll focus on foundational training through lectures, demonstrations, and practice on mannequin heads and classmates
  • Senior Phase (remaining 1150 hours): You’ll continue classroom learning while gaining hands-on experience working with clients in the student salon

Students move into the Senior phase after meeting academic and practical skill requirements.

Can I work while attending cosmetology school?

Many students choose to work while attending cosmetology school, especially those enrolled in the evening program. Your ability to balance work and school will depend on your schedule, availability, and personal commitments.

If you’re trying to fit school into a busy routine, our team can help you explore scheduling options that may work best for you.

When will I start working with real clients?

Students begin working with real clients during the Senior phase of the program. Before that, you’ll spend time building your confidence and skills through practice and classroom instruction.

Once you transition to the clinic floor, you’ll perform services on real guests in a supervised environment, with instructors available to guide and support you.

Can I transfer hours from another cosmetology school?

Transfer hours may be accepted based on Michigan State Board guidelines. Students will need to provide a transcript of previous training, and hours must meet certain eligibility requirements.

A skills evaluation may also be required to determine your current level of experience and how many hours can be applied toward the program.

What happens after I complete the cosmetology program?

After completing the required 1500 hours, students who meet all graduation requirements will receive a diploma. At that point, you may become eligible to apply for the Michigan State Board of Cosmetology licensing exam.

From there, graduates can begin exploring career opportunities in the beauty industry based on their interests and goals.

Plan Your Start

2026 COSMETOLOGY CLASS START DATES

Classes begin several times a year at both campuses. Choose the campus and schedule that fit your life, then contact admissions to reserve your spot.

Royal Oak Campus

Day Program

Mon–Fri · 9:00 a.m.–4:15 p.m.
  • March 9
  • June 8
  • September 14
  • December 14

Evening Program

Mon–Thu · 5:00–10:00 p.m. & Sat · 8:00 a.m.–3:15 p.m.
  • March 16
  • September 21

Taylor Campus

Day Program

Mon–Fri · 9:00 a.m.–4:15 p.m.
  • February 9
  • May 11
  • August 10
  • November 9

Evening Program

Mon–Thu · 5:00–10:00 p.m. & Sat · 8:00 a.m.–3:15 p.m.
  • March 2
  • September 14

Cosmetology Instructor classes begin on the same dates. Start dates are subject to change, so contact our admissions team to confirm the next available start at your campus.

4 Steps to Enroll

1
Schedule a Tour

Visit our Royal Oak or Taylor campus, meet our instructors, and get your questions answered.

2
Complete Application

Tell us your program, preferred schedule, and ideal start date.

3
Share Your Documents

Submit your photo ID, Social Security card, and proof of high school completion.

4
Pick Your Schedule

Choose day or evening classes and the start date that works for you.

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ROYAL OAK

1127 S. Washington Avenue
Royal Oak, MI 48067

Text Only: 248.241.9552
Salon & Spa: 248.548.5090

CAMPUS HOURS
Mon-Thu: 09:00AM-10:00PM
Fri: 09:00AM-04:15PM
Sat: 08:00AM-03:15PM
*Appointments Recommended for Tours and Esthetic Services*

TAYLOR

21255 Wick Road
Taylor, MI 48180

Text Only: 313.284.7022
Salon & Spa: 313.291.7381

CAMPUS HOURS
Mon-Thu: 09:00AM-10:00PM
Fri: 09:00AM-04:15PM
Sat: 08:00AM-03:15PM
*Appointments Recommended for Tours and Esthetic Services*