Hairstylist

Overview

Get full theoretical knowledge and practical training in hair design including cutting, colouring, styling, and overall salon management while serving real clients at VCC’s state-of-the-art salon and spa.

What to expect

The Hairstylist Certificate program is designed to meet the training needs of the Industry and the required training objectives established by SkilledTradesBC. The Hairstylist program provides a wide range of student learning opportunities in the classroom, salon and workplace settings. Students will gain hands-on practical experience working with clients in the VCC Salon and Spa. Industry work experience provides students with additional opportunities to apply their knowledge and technical skills in a workplace setting. Classroom instruction is designed for students to develop theoretical knowledge and practical skills which will be applied for success in the VCC Salon and Spa.

Active student learning and participation is emphasized throughout the program to promote the development of knowledge, technical skills and professional behaviour required for success in the industry. Lectures, demonstrations, group work, peer assessment, reflective journaling, and project based learning strategies are used throughout the program to promote student leaning.

What you will learn

• Perform all duties of a hairstylist in accordance with industry health and safety standards related to hygiene, sanitation and disinfection practices.
• Use and maintain tools and equipment according to industry standards.
• Demonstrate professional behavior and communication skills with clients and co-workers.
• Identify the structure and functions of the skin and the hair and recognize possible disease and disorders.
• Perform shampooing, conditioning and scalp massaging services using the correct manipulations and professional haircare products.
• Demonstrate elevated and non-elevated haircuts using a variety of tools and techniques.
• Perform wet and dry hair styling using a variety of styling techniques, products and tools.
• Apply the fundamentals of preparing and applying professional colour and lightening products using specific applications and techniques.
• Demonstrate permanent wave procedures using a variety of tools and techniques.
• Describe the types and purposes of hair extensions, wigs and hairpieces.
• Apply fundamental business management knowledge and skills needed to operate a hair salon.

Program duration and maximum time for completion

This program is 10 months in length and is offered in a progression of 3 courses. The maximum time to complete this program is 2 years.

Admission requirements

Program-specific

English 10 or equivalent.

Applicants who do not meet the program admission requirements may be admitted based on an interview with the Department leader or representative.

Recommended considerations

• Sincere interest in administering personal services;
• Interpersonal and communication skills required for providing customer service;
• Good hand-eye coordination;
• Manual dexterity and creative ability;
• Normal colour vision;
• Good depth perception and ability to perceive line and form;
• Ability to stand for long periods of time;
• Ability to plan and work independently;
• Self-motivated and a sense of responsibility;
• Basic writing and numerical skills;
• Interest in art, fashion, creativity or design

Candidates considering this program are likely to be most successful as graduates if they are in good health and are aware that health concerns such as asthma, respiratory problems, skin conditions and eczema may be present in this career. 

Program availability

Courses

International students

This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.

Fees and costs

How to apply

This program typically takes place at the VCC Downtown campus.

Occasionally, courses may be scheduled at off-site locations. If you take a course that is scheduled at an off-site location (such as a high school), you may be required to submit a Criminal Record Check (CRC). You will be given instructions if you need to do so. Check B.C. government website for an additional information.

Youth applications (high school students in grade 10 and 11):

Applicants do not apply to VCC directly. Interested students, teachers and counsellors should contact the Career Program Coordinator or Administrator for their school district. The Program Coordinator and applicant complete the Youth in Trades Application and return to [email protected].

See the SkilledTradesBC Youth in Trades program website for details.

NOTE: Adults and youth may be in classes together.

Adult applications: see below.

Ready to apply?

Online

You will be directed to EducationPlannerBC.

Mail

Fill out a PDF form and mail to:
VCC Registrar's Office
1155 East Broadway
Vancouver, B.C., V5T 4V5

International students

Apply to VCC international programs online. Check the availability status for your desired program and intake before applying.

Contact us

Advising services

Phone: 604.871.7000, option 2
Email: [email protected]

Advising services for International students

[email protected]