BJ’s Beauty and Barber College | Reviews
General Information
Reviews
Students and clients of BJ’s Beauty and Barber College (BJBBC) report a wide range of experiences, reflecting both strong positives and serious concerns about the school. On the positive side, some students praise the hands‑on training and practical nature of the programs, emphasizing that instructors are highly skilled professionals and passionate educators. Small class sizes allow individualized attention that helps students develop technical skills and confidence in cosmetology or barbering work. The school also offers salon-style services to the public, providing students with real-world training and opportunities to build a portfolio and prepare for state licensing exams.
However, many reviews are critical, pointing to chronic issues such as poor staffing, outdated or unsafe facilities, lack of supervision, and administrative problems. Some students have reported inadequate equipment, over-used plugs in nail and barber rooms, and inconsistent availability of instructors, resulting in students performing free labor under minimal supervision. Other concerns include mismanaged financial aid, delayed delivery of required kits, and withheld transcripts or certificates, which can impact graduation or job readiness.
Overall, feedback is mixed: while some find real value in the practical training and small-school atmosphere, others view the school as poorly managed, with flaws in infrastructure and support services. Anyone considering enrollment should carefully weigh these contrasting experiences and, if possible, visit the campus and speak with current or former students before committing.
Contact Information
Address: 5239 South Tacoma Way, Tacoma, WA 98409, USA
Phone number: (253) 473‑4320
Email address: Not publicly available
School Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Institution Name | BJ’s Beauty and Barber College |
| Founding Year | 1991 |
| Type | Private, For‑Profit Beauty / Vocational School |
| Accreditation | Accredited by National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences (NACCAS) |
| Campus Location | Tacoma, Washington, USA (urban / midsize city) |
| Highest Credential | Certificate / Diploma (less than 2‑year programs) |
| Student Body Size | Very small (typically under 40 students) |
| Calendar / Scheduling | Continuous calendar system, with flexible scheduling (day / evening / part‑time) |
BJ’s Beauty and Barber College Rankings
| Ranking System / Scope | Rank / Note |
|---|---|
| National (USA) | Not ranked among traditional colleges/universities; typically not included in mainstream higher-education rankings |
| Global | Not ranked globally; vocational focus and certificate-level credentials place it outside global research-university rankings |
BJ’s Beauty and Barber College Academics
BJ’s Beauty and Barber College Faculties / Departments
- Cosmetology / Hair Styling
- Barbering / Barber Skills
- Esthetics / Skin Care & Makeup
- Nail Technology / Manicuring
- Instructor / Teacher Training
BJ’s Beauty and Barber College Courses Offered and Programs / Majors
- Barbering (≈ 1,000 hours program)
- Cosmetology (≈ 1,600 hours program)
- Esthetics / Skin Care & Makeup
- Nail Technology / Manicuring
- Teacher / Instructor Training
Online Courses / Online Learning
There is no publicly available information indicating that BJ’s Beauty and Barber College offers online courses. The curriculum focuses on in-person, hands-on instruction in barbering, cosmetology, skin care, and nail services.
Degrees
BJ’s Beauty and Barber College awards certificates or diplomas upon completion of vocational training programs. No traditional academic degrees (associate’s, bachelor’s, or higher) are offered.
Summer School
The school does not offer a dedicated summer school. It operates on a continuous calendar system with flexible enrollment options, including day, evening, or part-time classes.
Average Test Scores
| Test / Measure | Data |
|---|---|
| SAT / ACT | Not applicable / Not used |
| GRE | Not applicable |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Public records indicate a small student population, typically 26–39 students. Graduation rates are reported around 91% for some cohorts, while retention rates can range up to 100%. Metrics may fluctuate depending on program and year.
BJ’s Beauty and Barber College Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
BJ’s Beauty and Barber College uses an open admission policy: applicants need a high school diploma or GED. There are no minimum GPA or standardized test requirements.
Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Value / Note |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 85%, reflecting a relatively accessible admission process |
BJ’s Beauty and Barber College Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a high school diploma or GED. The school emphasizes practical readiness and ability to commit to program schedules. Adult learners, career changers, and high school graduates are all welcome. Financial aid support is available for qualifying students.
Application Process
- Complete enrollment application indicating desired program
- Provide proof of high school graduation or GED
- Attend orientation or interview if required
- Discuss financial aid or scholarship eligibility
- Schedule classes and complete required training hours
BJ’s Beauty and Barber College Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Deadline / Date Type | Information / Note |
|---|---|
| Enrollment Period | Continuous admission throughout the year |
| Program Start Dates | Flexible, depending on program track and scheduling |
Essay Prompt
No admissions essay or personal statement is required.
BJ’s Beauty and Barber College Scholarships
Financial aid is available for qualifying students, including federal grants, loans, or work-study programs. Some students receive grants or scholarships, with amounts varying by program and eligibility.
BJ’s Beauty and Barber College Tuition Fees (Costs)
| Program / Credential | Tuition / Fees (approximate) |
|---|---|
| Barbering (certificate) | Around US$ 10,100 |
| Cosmetology (certificate) | Higher tuition depending on program hours |
| Esthetics / Nail / Other Certificate Programs | Tuition varies depending on program length and required kits |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
Majority female students (≈90%), male students ≈10%. Age ranges from 18 to 50+, indicating a mix of recent high school graduates and adult learners. No detailed racial/ethnic data publicly available.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
No reliable publicly available data on low-income students or students with disabilities.
Student Body
| Metric | Value / Note |
|---|---|
| Approximate Total Students | 26–39 students |
| Undergraduate Students | 100% |
| International Students | Likely minimal or none |
University Diversity
Due to the small size and vocational focus, diversity in terms of age and life experience is present, but broader cultural, socioeconomic, and international diversity is limited. The majority of students are women, consistent with trends in cosmetology and beauty industries. The school attracts career changers and adult learners, creating some diversity in professional experience.
Average Earnings
Post-graduation earnings for graduates vary widely depending on career path, location, and experience. Entry-level cosmetology or barber roles may average around US$25,100, but earnings can increase with clientele development, tips, and self-employment opportunities. Actual outcomes vary significantly.
Graduation Rate
Graduation rate for small cohorts is approximately 91%, though small cohort size means metrics fluctuate.
BJ’s Beauty and Barber College Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Small student-to-faculty ratio allows individualized attention. Instructors provide hands-on training in cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, and nail technology, preparing students for licensing exams.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty focus on practical skills and licensed-industry expertise. Public information on individual instructor achievements is limited. Students are trained in salon services, safety, sanitation, and client relations.
BJ’s Beauty and Barber College Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
No on-campus housing; students secure off-campus housing or commute. Campus life centers on practical salon training, client services, and flexible scheduling. Limited traditional campus activities or social programs due to small size.
Transportation
Located in Tacoma, WA. Students primarily commute via public transportation, personal vehicles, or rideshare. No on-campus mobility systems exist.
Job Openings / Career Services
Focus on career-oriented training for immediate entry into salons, barber shops, spas, or freelance work. Curriculum prepares students for state licensing exams and practical industry roles.