Hairstyling (Accelerated)

Overview

The Hairstyling diploma program provides students with practical, theoretical, and experiential learning opportunities, preparing them for a rewarding career in the hairstyling industry. Students acquire comprehensive knowledge and skills that encompass all aspects of hairstyling, including haircutting, styling, chemical services, and hair additions, along with career preparation and business operations. This diploma program is fast-tracked, allowing students to complete their studies in just 47 weeks.

The faculty comprises highly trained professionals with extensive experience in the hairstyling field, many of whom are program graduates. Continuous skill updates enable faculty to provide students with the latest techniques and trends relevant to the ever-evolving industry.

Program Details

• Program Code: 0503
• CIP Code: 12.0407
• Start Date: September 2026
• Credential: Ontario College Diploma
• Campus: Kingston
• Program Length: 1 Year (47 weeks)
• Delivery: Full-Time
• Open for International Students: Yes

Program Highlights

• The program meets the 1,500 vocational training hours mandated by the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development, enabling graduates to proceed directly into an Apprenticeship without exemption testing. Graduates can subsequently take the Certificate of Qualification (C of Q) exam to become licensed hairstylists in Ontario.
• Students gain hands-on experience in fully operational training salons, namely Transition Training Salon (Brockville) and Dynamic Designs (Kingston).
• The curriculum includes training with professional brand hair care, styling, and chemical products such as Redken, Matrix, Pulp Riot, AG Hair, and Goldwell, along with administrative operations using Milano Spa Software.
• Networking opportunities with industry professionals and guest speaker sessions enrich the learning experience.
• The program includes three community salon placement opportunities, enhancing students' foundational skills and providing real-world experience; many students secure employment directly from these placements.

Program Outline

Semester 1

• HAIR 53: Entrepreneurial Skills 1: Communication and Ethics
  Covers the introductory roles and responsibilities of hairstylists, focusing on professional ethics, development, and communication skills.
• HAIR 100: Applied Salon Services 1
  Students practice foundational salon skills, including hairstyling, haircutting, and chemical services.
• HAIR 101: Haircutting 1: Fundamentals
  Introduces basic haircutting skills, emphasizing health, safety, and professional skills development.
• HAIR 102: Salon Safety Standards
  Health, safety, and sanitation practices relevant to the salon industry.
• HAIR 111: Hairstyling 1: Preparatory Procedures
  Basic hairstyling skills, including tools and techniques for hair care and hairstyling.
• HAIR 1000: Chemical Services 1: Introduction to Haircolouring Techniques
  Fundamental skills for haircolouring and chemical services, focusing on safety and sanitation.
• GENE: General Education Course

Semester 2

• HAIR 54: Entrepreneurial Skills 2: Career Planning and Marketing
  Expands on non-technical skills needed for hairstyling careers, focusing on client acquisition and retention.
• HAIR 200: Applied Salon Services 2
  Continuation of salon skills with an emphasis on intermediate techniques and client communication skills.
• HAIR 202: Haircutting 2: Barbering Fundamentals
  Advanced haircutting techniques with a focus on barbering skills.
• HAIR 2004: Hairstyling 2: Formal Styling
  Formal hairstyling techniques and design practices.
• HAIR 2000: Chemical Services 2: Intermediate Haircolouring
  Expands skills in hair colour formulation and texture services.
• HAIR 281: Applied Learning Experience 1
  Experiential learning in a salon environment with industry experts.
• HAIR 2001: Textured Hair Techniques and Hair Additions
  Focuses on textured hair techniques and the application of hair additions.
• GENE: General Education Course

Semester 3

• HAIR 2005: Entrepreneurial Skills 3: Business Operations
  Business development and operational skills for salon management.
• HAIR 2006: Applied Salon Services 3
  Advanced salon tasks, including hairstyling and communication skills.
• HAIR 2007: Advanced Hair Design
  Integration of hair design principles with creative skills.
• HAIR 2008: Licensing Exam Preparation
  Preparation course for the C of Q exam, emphasizing theoretical knowledge and best practices.
• HAIR 2002: Haircutting 3: Advanced Haircutting Techniques
  Mastery of advanced haircutting skills.
• HAIR 2003: Chemical Services 3: Advanced Haircolouring
  Advanced techniques in haircolouring and customized looks.
• HAIR 382: Applied Learning Experiences 2
  Continued experiential learning and networking.
• HAIR 383: Applied Learning Experiences 3
  Advanced tasks typical of apprentice or salon employment.
• GENE: Online General Education Course

Requirements

Admission Requirements

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, including:
  • Grade 12 English at the C, U, or E level
  • Grade 11 Math

Students missing prerequisite courses may enroll in the Career/College Prep program.

Other Requirements

• Co-op Work Permit (For International Students Only). This document, with proper annotations, is required for placement.

Placement

• Placement 1: January-April: 8 hours/week
• Placement 2: April-June: 8 hours/week
• Placement 3: July/August: 35 hours/week

Students are responsible for salon site research, interviews, and confirmation processes, with faculty approval.

Fees

Canadian Students

• Tuition: $5,551.56 CAD
• Program Fees: $1,440.00 CAD
• Ancillary Fees: $2,067.04 CAD
• Total: $9,058.60 CAD

International Students

• Tuition: $34,422.60 CAD
• Program Fees: $1,440.00 CAD
• Ancillary Fees: $2,879.41 CAD
• Total: $38,742.01 CAD

Career Opportunities

• Hair Stylist or Barber
• Design, Colour, or Texture Specialist
• Salon Owner, Manager, or Trainer
• Self-Employed/ Contract Stylist/ Freelance Artist
• Sales Consultant
• Manufacturer Educator/Representative/Platform Artist
• Editorial, Theatrical, or Film Stylist
• Industry Instructor/Facilitator

Scholarship & Bursary

St. Lawrence College offers a variety of scholarships and bursaries to recognize academic excellence and professional potential. Graduates of the Hairstyling diploma program may be eligible for several awards, including:

• NP Group Beauty Supply Award
• Beauty Systems Group Volunteer Award
• Redken Elite Scholarship

Degree Overview:

Hairstyling (Accelerated) Diploma Program

This program provides students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills required for a successful career in the hairstyling industry. The program focuses on developing expertise in haircutting, styling, chemical services, hair additions, and business operations. With a fast-track curriculum, students can complete the program in 47 weeks and graduate prepared to enter the workforce.

Objectives:

• Equip students with a comprehensive understanding of hairstyling techniques and principles.
• Develop strong practical skills through hands-on training in a salon environment.
• Foster an understanding of business operations and entrepreneurial skills in the context of hairstyling.
• Prepare graduates for the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development Certificate of Qualification exam.

Program Description:

The Hairstyling (Accelerated) program blends theoretical instruction with practical application. Students acquire knowledge in hairstyling fundamentals, haircutting, chemical services, hair additions, business operations, and entrepreneurial skills. The program emphasizes safety, sanitation, and ethical practices within the salon environment.

Unique Features:

• Fast-track curriculum completed in 47 weeks.
• Experienced faculty with industry expertise.
• Training in fully operational salon environments.
• Three community salon placement opportunities for real-world experience.
• Preparation for the Ontario Certificate of Qualification exam.

Outline:

Semester 1:

• Hair 53: Entrepreneurial Skills 1: Communication and Ethics
• Hair 101: Haircutting 1: Fundamentals
• Hair 111: Hairstyling 1: Preparatory Procedures
• Hair 121: Chemical Services 1: Introduction to Haircolouring Techniques
• Hair 102: Salon Safety Standards
• Hair 100: Applied Salon Services 1
• Math 84: Math for Hairstylists
• Gene: General Education Course

Semester 2:

• Hair 202: Haircutting 2: Barbering Fundamentals
• Hair 212: Hairstyling 2: Formal Styling
• Hair 222: Chemical Services 2: Intermediate Haircolouring and Chemical Techniques
• Hair 281: Applied Learning Experience 1
• Hair 200: Applied Salon Services 2
• Hair 54: Entrepreneurial Skills 2: Career Planning and Marketing
• Gene: General Education Course

Semester 3:

Semester 3:

• Hair 49: Entrepreneurial Skills 3: Business Operations
• Hair 303: Haircutting 3: Advanced Haircutting Techniques
• Hair 313: Hairstyling 3: Trends and Customization
• Hair 323: Chemical Services 3: Advanced Haircolouring
• Hair 333: Hair Additions
• Hair 382: Applied Learning Experiences 2
• Hair 300: Applied Salon Services 3
• Hair 301: Advanced Hair Design
• Hair 302: Licensing Exam Preparation
• Hair 383: Applied Learning Experiences 3
• Gene Online: General Education Online

Assessment: Assessment methods in the Hairstyling program include:

• Practical assessments: Students demonstrate their skills in haircutting, styling, chemical services, and hair additions through practical demonstrations and client services in the salon environment.
• Theoretical assessments: Students complete written exams, quizzes, and assignments to assess their knowledge of hairstyling theory, principles, and safety procedures.
• Portfolio development: Students create a portfolio showcasing their skills and accomplishments throughout the program.
• Participation and professionalism: Students are assessed on their active participation in class discussions, attendance, and demonstration of professional conduct.

Teaching: The program benefits from experienced faculty with industry expertise. They use a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Interactive lectures: Engaging students in discussions and applying theoretical concepts to practical scenarios.
• Hands-on demonstrations: Faculty showcase techniques and skills for students to observe and practice.
• Personalized feedback: Providing individual guidance and support to help students improve their skills.
• Guest speakers: Industry professionals share their experiences and insights with students.

Careers: Graduates of the Hairstyling program can pursue a variety of career opportunities, including:

• Hairstylist or Barber: Providing haircutting, styling, and chemical services to clients in salons, barbershops, or freelance settings.
• Design, Colour, or Texture Specialist: Specializing in specific areas of hairstyling, such as advanced haircutting techniques, hair colouring, or hair extensions.
• Salon Owner, Manager, or Trainer: Taking on leadership roles within salons, managing staff, and providing training to new stylists.
• Self-Employed/Contract Stylist/Freelance Artist: Building an independent clientele and offering services outside of traditional salon settings.
• Sales Consultant: Working for hairstyling product companies, advising clients on product selection and promoting new products.
• Manufacturer Educator/Representative/Platform Artist: Providing education and training to hairstylists on behalf of product companies or conducting demonstrations at industry events.
• Editorial, Theatrical or Film Stylist: Working in creative fields, styling hair for fashion shoots, theatrical productions, or film and television projects.
• Industry Instructor/Facilitator: Sharing their knowledge and skills by teaching hairstyling courses at colleges, private institutions, or within salons.

Other:

• The program offers three community salon placement opportunities, providing students with real-world experience and networking opportunities.
• Graduates are eligible to apply for the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development Certificate of Qualification exam and become licensed hairstylists in Ontario.
• The program emphasizes sustainability practices and encourages students to use eco-friendly products and techniques.

St. Lawrence College (SLC) is a publicly funded college of applied arts and technology located in Eastern Ontario, Canada, with campuses in Kingston, Brockville and Cornwall. Established in 1967 as part of the Ontario college system, SLC has served its communities for more than 50 years, combining modern, expansive facilities across three vibrant eastern Ontario cities with the advantages of small-town living and genuine personal attention to every student. With more than 140,000 alumni worldwide, over 5,500 student placements annually and more than 55 programs, SLC remains one of Eastern Ontario's most trusted and dynamic post-secondary institutions.

St. Lawrence College is situated on the traditional lands of the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee peoples. SLC is always grateful to live and learn on these lands.

Founding history

St. Lawrence College was born out of the broader creation of Ontario's college system in 1967, a vision championed by Premier William Davis — now regarded as the father of the Ontario College System — who responded to growing demand for technical education by establishing colleges of applied arts and technology across the province.

Cornwall and Kingston were selected to serve six counties in the Eastern Ontario region: Frontenac, Leeds, Grenville, Dundas, Stormont and Glengarry. In Kingston, the 59-acre former Ontario Psychiatric Hospital farmland at King Street and Portsmouth Avenue was acquired from the provincial government for one dollar. By September 1969, students were attending classes in the campus's first permanent building — a white steel structure comprising a gymnasium, cafeteria, administrative office and student lounges — while Dundas and Stormont Halls were still under construction around them. The first programs included Business Administration, General Business, Home Economics, Early Childhood Education, Engineering Technology and Electronics Technician.

In 1968, Cornwall Classical College, a private Catholic school, was purchased and renamed Moulinette Hall. Brockville was formally recognised as a third campus in 1970, acquiring Ontario Hospital farmland on Parkedale Avenue, also for one dollar. By its tenth anniversary, St. Lawrence College had established itself as a strong and creative force in its region, and has continued evolving ever since to meet the needs of students seeking skills that lead to a better quality of life.

Three campuses

• Kingston (main campus): 100 Portsmouth Avenue, Kingston, Ontario K7L 5A6 — Phone: 613.544.5400. The largest campus, set on the original 59-acre site, with modern facilities across multiple buildings and full access to student services, athletics, residences and libraries.
• Brockville: 2288 Parkedale Avenue, Brockville, Ontario K6V 5X3 — Phone: 613.345.0660. Located on the hill of Parkedale Avenue on the former Ontario Hospital farmland, serving the Brockville community and region.
• Cornwall: 2 St. Lawrence Drive, Cornwall, Ontario K6H 4Z1 — Phone: 613.933.6080. Built around the heritage Moulinette Hall site, serving Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry counties in the francophone and bilingual heart of Eastern Ontario.

Areas of study and programs

SLC offers more than 55 full-time programs across nine areas of study, available on campus, online, in hybrid formats and through fast-track delivery options:

• Apprenticeships
• Business
• Community and Social Services
• Design (Arts, Media and Design)
• Graduate Certificates
• Health Sciences
• Justice Studies
• Science and Technology
• Skilled Trades

Programs are available as certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas, graduate certificates and four-year degrees. Online and part-time learning options extend access to working professionals, career changers and lifelong learners across Ontario and beyond. Credential types and delivery formats are designed to fit different stages of life and career.

Recent milestones and new programs

SLC has achieved several significant milestones in 2025 and 2026. Its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) program received a seven-year accreditation from the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing (CASN), making SLC the first college in Ontario to achieve Path B accreditation for a standalone BScN degree — the maximum accreditation term possible, applying to the BScN program across all three campuses as well as the Practical Nurse to BScN Bridge program.

SLC also expanded its specialty nursing portfolio with three new certificate programs for registered nurses seeking advanced skills in high-demand healthcare areas: Mental Health Nursing, Registered Nurse Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU), and Registered Nurse Perianesthesia Nursing (PACU). All three programs are offered online with flexible delivery to allow nurses to study while continuing to work. In 2026, SLC launched The Next Wave, a new brand campaign and platform that reimagines its iconic wave logo as a symbol of momentum, leadership and collective impact.

Graduate certificates

Graduate certificates are a key strength of the SLC portfolio, offering diploma and degree holders a focused pathway to gain specialised, industry-driven skills in a shorter timeframe. Programs are designed around real-world learning opportunities and current employer needs, providing a fast track into advanced or specialist roles across many of SLC's program areas. The Communicative Disorders Assistant graduate certificate, for example, prepares graduates to work alongside Registered Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists in a variety of settings, and is available in both in-class and online formats across Ontario.

Student support services

• Academic and Student Success: academic advising, tutoring, learning supports and success coaching
• Student Wellness and Accessibility: mental health services, counselling, and accessibility accommodations under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)
• Indigenous Services: dedicated cultural and academic support for Indigenous students, including connections to Elders and community resources
• Career Services: job search support, resume assistance, employer connections and placement partnerships
• Housing: campus residences available at all three campuses, providing a safe and convenient home-away-from-home for students
• Athletics and Recreation: varsity and recreational sports, fitness facilities and wellness programming across campuses
• International Student Services: dedicated advising, study permit guidance, orientation, homestay coordination and community integration support
• Libraries: campus libraries with digital and physical collections and student study spaces
• Student Governments: student-elected governments at each campus representing students' interests and organising campus life programming
• Financial Aid: OSAP, bursaries, scholarships (donor-supported and SLC/government-sponsored), Ontario Learn and Stay Grant eligibility, and the Better Jobs Program

Belonging, equity, diversity and inclusion

SLC is committed to creating a campus community where every student, staff member and faculty member belongs. Its Belonging, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (BEDI) framework guides institutional practice and programming, complemented by the School of Contemporary Teaching and Learning, which supports the ongoing development of educators and teaching practices across the college.

Sustainability

Sustainability is an embedded institutional commitment at SLC, with a dedicated Sustainability strategy guiding decisions across campus operations, curriculum and community partnerships. SLC's approach to sustainability reflects its responsibility to the communities and lands it serves across Eastern Ontario.

Pathways and credit transfer

SLC actively supports students in building on their SLC credentials. Credit transfer, pathway and articulation agreements allow eligible SLC graduates to continue into degree programs at partner universities, with recognised transfer credits reducing duplication and shortening time to degree completion. Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) allows students to receive credit for skills and knowledge gained outside the classroom. Dual Credit programs for high school students create early pathways into college-level study.

International students

SLC welcomes international students to all three campuses, offering dedicated admissions support, English proficiency guidance, study permit assistance, and a comprehensive international student services office. Cost information for international students, payment guidance and placement agency partner listings are all published on the SLC website to support students and agents through the admissions process.

Why St. Lawrence College

1. A publicly funded Ontario college with more than 50 years of history, 140,000+ alumni worldwide and a consistent track record of preparing graduates for real careers in Eastern Ontario and beyond
2. Three campuses in Kingston, Brockville and Cornwall, combining modern facilities with the personal attention and community connection of smaller-city life
3. More than 55 programs across nine areas of study, from apprenticeships and skilled trades through to four-year degrees, graduate certificates and online and part-time options
4. The first college in Ontario to receive seven-year CASN accreditation for its BScN program — the maximum term possible — across all three campuses
5. Over 5,500 student placements annually, with career services, placement agency partners and strong employer connections embedded across all program areas
6. Comprehensive student support including wellness and accessibility, Indigenous services, athletics, housing, financial aid and dedicated international student services.
7. The Ontario Learn and Stay Grant and other provincial funding options support students who study and remain in the region, addressing Eastern Ontario's priority workforce needs