Program overview
The Hairstylist Foundation Certificate program at Northern Lights College is designed to provide students with comprehensive training in hairstyling, following the provincial Hairstylist Apprenticeship curriculum established by SkilledTradesBC. This program emphasizes hands-on experience, with students spending the majority of their training in a salon environment. Over the course of the program, students will learn essential skills such as haircuts, styles, shampoo and scalp treatments, as well as the techniques required for chemical treatments. Additionally, students will develop business and communication skills necessary for success in a salon setting. Upon completion, students will have the opportunity to create a personal portfolio to showcase their skills to potential employers.
Program structure
The Hairstylist Foundation Certificate program is structured to provide a robust educational experience over a period of approximately 37 weeks, totaling around 990 hours of training. The program includes:
- Majority of training conducted in a salon environment.
- 300 hours of work-based training included in the program.
- Introduction to basic hairstyling techniques and chemical treatments.
- Development of business and communication skills.
- Creation of a personal portfolio to market skills and creativity.
Upon successful completion of the Foundation program, students may enroll in the Hairstylist Apprenticeship Program after completing an additional 1290 hours of work-based training.
Featured Experiences
The Hairstylist Foundation Certificate program offers several unique features that enhance the learning experience:
- Hands-on training in a real salon environment, allowing students to apply their skills in practical settings.
- Work-based training hours that provide valuable experience and prepare students for the workforce.
- Opportunity to create a personal portfolio, showcasing individual skills and creativity.
- Training in both technical hairstyling skills and essential business communication.
- Affiliation with SkilledTradesBC, ensuring the program meets industry standards.
Career Options
Graduates of the Hairstylist Foundation Certificate program have a variety of career options available to them in Canada, including:
- Hairstylist: Provide hair cutting, coloring, and styling services to clients in salons.
- Salon Technician: Assist in the daily operations of a salon, ensuring customer satisfaction and service quality.
- Platform Artist: Demonstrate hairstyling techniques at events and shows, showcasing skills to a wider audience.
- Salon Manager: Oversee salon operations, manage staff, and ensure a high level of customer service.
- Film Stylist: Work in the film industry to create hairstyles for actors and actresses, contributing to the overall visual storytelling.
- Instructor: Teach hairstyling techniques to students in educational institutions.
- Inspector/Examiner: Evaluate and assess the skills of hairstylists in training or those seeking certification.
- Salesperson: Work in beauty supply stores or salons, selling products and providing expert advice to customers.
DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.
Visit Northern Lights College official website




