Aveda Institute Boise
General Information — Aveda Institute Boise
About (Overview)
Aveda Institute Boise is a beauty and wellness education institution in Boise, Idaho that offers hands-on training and professional preparation in cosmetology, esthetics, nail technology, and barbering. The school emphasizes not only technical skills like hair design, skincare, and nail artistry but also business, marketing, client relations, and salon management principles. Students work in a student salon environment under supervision, gaining real-world experience with clients while still learning foundational theory in the classroom. The institute is owned and operated by Nathan and Ren Shaw, salon professionals who envisioned a beauty education model rooted in industry experience and sustainability values.
Over time, Aveda Institute Boise has become known in the region for its strong integration of salon practice, eco-conscious Aveda brand philosophy, and commitment to producing graduates ready for employment or entrepreneurship in the beauty sector. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for state licensing examinations and to help them launch careers in salons, spas, or as independent stylists. Because Aveda Institute Boise is not a traditional four-year degree institution, its focus is vocational and professional training rather than liberal arts or research. Nonetheless, it offers a structured pathway for students to build credentials in high demand, especially in markets where beauty, wellness, and aesthetics are growing. The school serves a small but focused student population and aims to maintain high standards of instruction, personalized attention, and industry relevance.
Contact Information
Address: 10222 West Fairview Avenue, Boise, Idaho, 83704, USA
Phone: (208) 544-4678
Email: admissions@avedaidaho.com
School Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year (Boise campus) | 2007 |
| Parent / Brand | Aveda Institute / Aveda brand |
| Accreditation | Accredited by National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts & Sciences (NACCAS) (programs) |
| Type | Private, for-profit vocational beauty school |
| Programs Offered | Cosmetology, Esthetics, Nail Technology, Barbering, Instructor training |
| Student Enrollment | ~ 93 undergraduates (vocational students) |
| Gender Ratio | ~ 89% female, ~ 11% male |
Aveda Institute Boise Rankings
| Scope | Ranking / Notes |
|---|---|
| National Vocational / Beauty Schools | Not ranked in mainstream national league tables |
| Regional / State Recognition | Recognized locally among top cosmetology schools in Idaho |
| Online / Global | No online degree programs; not ranked globally |
Aveda Institute Boise Academics
Aveda Institute Boise Faculties / Departments
Since Aveda Institute Boise is a specialized vocational school rather than a broad university, its structure is organized around program divisions rather than traditional faculties. The primary departments / program areas include:
- Cosmetology & Hair Design
- Esthetics / Skin Care
- Nail Technology / Manicuring
- Barbering / Men’s Grooming
- Instructor Training (cosmetology/nail/barber instructor)
Aveda Institute Boise Courses and Programs / Majors
Among the main programs offered at Aveda Institute Boise are:
- Cosmetology (hair, cut, color, styling, chemical services)
- Esthetics (skin care, facials, waxing, spa treatments)
- Nail Technology / Manicuring & Nail Art
- Barbering
- Cosmetology / Barbering / Nail Instructor training
- Advanced or certification add-ons such as lash extension certification
Online Learning
Aveda Institute Boise does not currently offer fully online degree or certificate programs. Because beauty and wellness training require hands-on clinical practice, most coursework must be completed in person in labs, salon floors, or supervised clinic environments. Theory components might incorporate digital or blended learning tools (videos, modules, online reading assignments), but the essential skill training occurs on campus.
Average Test Scores
| Test Type | Typical Score Range / Average |
|---|---|
| SAT | Data not applicable / not required |
| ACT | Not required / not applicable |
| GRE | Not applicable |
Aveda Institute Boise employs an “open admission” or “admit all qualified” policy for many programs and does not use standardized test scores as part of admission decisions.
Retention and Graduation Rates
The institution reports a graduation rate of approximately 92% for its programs. The retention rate (full-time student persistence) is about 64%. Student to faculty ratio is reported around 16:1, reflecting smaller cohort sizes and personalized instruction.
Aveda Institute Boise Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Applicants are generally not evaluated on GPA or standardized test scores. Admission is open to high school graduates, GED holders, or those with equivalent prior education. There is no formal GPA range requirement or test score threshold.
Aveda Institute Boise Acceptance Rate
| Category | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| Aveda Institute Boise (vocational) | 100% (open admission) |
Aveda Institute Boise Application Requirements
To apply to Aveda Institute Boise, prospective students typically complete an application and registration form and pay a non-refundable fee (around $100). Applicants are required to present a valid photo ID (such as a driver’s license), proof of high school graduation or GED, and transcripts if applicable. In addition, applicants may need to submit documentation of name changes (marriage or legal documentation) if relevant. Some programs may require letters of recommendation. The school may also evaluate readiness for the beauty profession—including demonstrated interest, professionalism, and commitment—though formal standardized test submission is generally not required.
Application Process
- Fill out the Aveda Institute Boise application and pay registration fee
- Submit proof of high school diploma, GED, or transcripts
- Provide a valid photo identification
- Submit name change or legal documents if applicable
- Submit any recommendation letters if requested
- Meet with admissions or schedule an orientation
- Register for classes and attend program start
Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Program Start Term | Approximate Deadline |
|---|---|
| January cohort | Early preceding month |
| March cohort | Late winter prior |
| May cohort | Early spring |
| July cohort | Late spring |
| September cohort | Late summer |
| October / later start | Early fall |
Aveda Institute Boise typically runs multiple start dates per year for certain programs, especially cosmetology and esthetics, allowing students flexibility in enrollment timing.
Essay Prompt
Aveda Institute Boise does not typically require a formal essay as part of the application. If supplemental narrative is requested, it may ask the applicant to explain their interest in beauty, career goals in cosmetology or wellness, and how they plan to balance study with personal commitments.
Aveda Institute Boise Scholarships
Aveda Institute Boise offers financial aid to qualifying students, including institutional scholarships, grants, and federal student aid where available. Roughly half of students receive some financial assistance. The school encourages applicants to explore scholarships, apply for federal aid (where eligible), and inquire about payment plans or discounts.
Aveda Institute Boise Tuition and Fees (Costs)
| Program | Tuition & Fees | Book & Supply Costs | Program Length | Approx Completion Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetology | $21,172 | $2,939 | 1,600 contact hours | ~13 months |
| Esthetics / Skin Care | $10,052 | $2,600 | 600 contact hours | ~5 months |
| Nail Technology | ~$5,905 | $1,823 | 400 contact hours | ~4 months |
| Barbering | $11,666 | $2,826 | 900 contact hours | ~7 months |
| Instructor (Cosmetology/Barber/Nail) | ~$6,437 | $689 | 900 contact hours | ~7 months |
These costs reflect program tuition and required supplies. Note that off-campus living expenses, room and board, and other fees may add substantially to total cost of attendance, especially for multi-term programs.
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
At Aveda Institute Boise, the student population is predominantly female, with approximately 89% identifying as female and about 11% male. Students come from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds: about 68% identifying as White, 17% Hispanic or Latino, 5% Asian, 2% Black or African American, 1% American Indian, and approximately 5% of unknown or multiple races. Enrollment generally includes recent high school graduates and adult learners, typically in the age range from late teens to early 30s. Because beauty education attracts a diverse demographic, classes often include students of various cultural backgrounds and life stages.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Aveda Institute Boise provides support and accommodation for students from lower income backgrounds through financial aid, grants, scholarships, and payment plan options. Students can apply for federal or state aid when available. For students with disabilities, the institute may work with students individually to provide reasonable accommodations in lab settings, additional time in theory instruction, or assistive tools, though the hands-on nature of training may impose limitations. Prospective students with special needs are encouraged to discuss accommodations early during admissions.
Student Body (Total Students, International Students, etc.)
| Category | Approximate Number / Estimate |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | ~ 93 students |
| Undergraduate / Vocational Students | ~ 93 (100%) |
| International Students | Very limited or none publicly reported |
University Diversity
Despite being a specialized vocational institution, Aveda Institute Boise incorporates diversity as a core value in its educational mission. The mix of students from multiple racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds enhances classroom dynamics and fosters inclusive dialogue in beauty and wellness fields that increasingly cater to diverse clientele. Students often bring varied life experiences, perspectives, and aesthetic sensibilities, contributing to peer learning and cross-cultural exchange. The institute’s emphasis on community, professionalism, and environmental stewardship further supports inclusive practices. While comprehensive demographic breakdowns are limited, the school’s gender and ethnicity statistics reflect relevance to the region’s population and evolving beauty industry clientele. Additionally, because entry does not require rigid academic thresholds, the institute is accessible to students of different academic and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Average Earnings
Because Aveda Institute Boise is a vocational institution, graduates typically pursue roles such as cosmetologist, esthetician, nail tech, barber, or salon owner/manager. Earnings vary widely depending on location, clientele, hours worked, commission or salary structure, and entrepreneurial initiative. Early in their careers, many graduates may start in salons or spas earning commission or hourly wages, which might average in the modest range depending on local demand. Over time, successful graduates can expand their income through private clientele, retail product sales, or opening their own business. Because earnings depend heavily on market, reputation, and individual drive, no uniform average is published. However, many programs aim to equip graduates with business, marketing, and client acquisition skills to help maximize their earning potential beyond technical service fees.
Aveda Institute Boise Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Aveda Institute Boise employs licensed instructors and industry professionals in cosmetology, esthetics, nail technology, and barbering. The faculty often includes professionals with real salon or spa experience, who bring practical expertise to student instruction. Support staff includes admissions counselors, administrative personnel, clinic supervisors, and student services. Because classes are small, instructors often maintain close mentorship with students. Salon floor supervision involves licensed professionals overseeing student salon work in real client settings for safety and quality assurance.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
Faculty at Aveda Institute Boise typically hold credentials in their specialty field and may maintain active practice or professional associations outside the school environment. Some instructors are certified in advanced techniques, hold awards in styling or aesthetics, or have experience in salon ownership or management. Their dual role as educators and practitioners helps bridge classroom theory and real industry standards. Many faculty are chosen for their ability to mentor, communicate, and stay current with beauty trends, sustainable practices, and evolving techniques in skincare, hair design, and wellness.
Aveda Institute Boise Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Aveda Institute Boise does not offer on-campus housing, as its programs cater to commuting local students and regional entrants. Students typically arrange off-campus housing in Boise or nearby communities. Because many students attend part-time or while working, they may live off campus and commute. The institute maintains student salon spaces, classrooms, labs, and a student beauty salon open to the public where students practice services. While social life and amenities are limited compared to a large university, extracurricular events, workshops, guest artist sessions, and student community activities may occur occasionally to augment learning and networking.
Transportation
The campus is located in Boise with road access via local streets. Students commuting by car or public transit must rely on local transportation infrastructure. Depending on their location, students may use personal vehicles, rideshares, or public bus systems in Boise to reach the campus. On facility grounds, mobility is by walking within classrooms, labs, and salon areas. Because training is in person, students must plan their travel and schedule accordingly. Public transport connectivity and commuting convenience are considerations for those living farther from the campus.