Appalachian Beauty School
General Information – Appalachian Beauty School
Reviews
Appalachian Beauty School receives mixed reviews, with some students praising the hands‑on training and others expressing serious concerns about administrative or interpersonal dynamics. On the positive side, graduates report that the school’s cosmetology program offers thorough, practical training — the 1,500‑hour cosmetology curriculum is seen by many as a solid foundation for entry into salon work. Some former students say instructors were knowledgeable and supportive, and that they gained the technical skills necessary for haircutting, styling, coloring, and other salon services. On the other hand, there are complaints about the school environment: a portion of reviewers describe negative interactions, including claims that the owner or certain instructors were “rude,” “snobby,” or unhelpful. Others warn prospective students that the experience may feel institutional and impersonal, especially when expectations or communication are unclear. Because of this dual perception, many recommend prospective students visit the campus in person, speak with current or former students, and consider how well they might adapt to the school’s culture. Overall, Appalachian Beauty School seems to offer legitimate technical training, but with some variability in student experience and satisfaction.
Contact Information
Address: 25429 U.S. Highway 119 North, Belfry, Kentucky 41514, United States
Phone Number: (606) 519‑3610
Email Address: (Not publicly standardized — prospective students are generally instructed to contact the admissions office via phone or contact form)
School Facts
| Fact | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1977 |
| Type | Private (for‑profit) trade/beauty school |
| Location | Belfry, Kentucky (serving the Appalachian Kentucky region) |
| Accreditation | Accredited by National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences (NACCAS) and licensed by Kentucky’s State Board of Hairdressers & Cosmetologists |
| Main Program Offered | Cosmetology (1500‑hour) |
| Typical Program Length | ~15 months |
Appalachian Beauty School Rankings
| Ranking Type | Position / Note |
|---|---|
| National (USA) | Not part of major national university ranking lists (beauty/trade‑school specialization) |
| Global | Not ranked globally (specialized trade school, no global-ranking data) |
Appalachian Beauty School Academics
Appalachian Beauty School Faculties / Departments
- Cosmetology and Beauty Services Department
Because the school is specialized, it does not have multiple “faculties” like a multi-disciplinary university; the focus centers around cosmetology and related beauty training.
Appalachian Beauty School Courses Offered and Programs / Majors
- Cosmetology (1500‑hour program) — the primary program
- Within cosmetology training: hair cutting & styling, coloring, chemical treatments, shampooing, basic esthetics, possibly nail technology or related beauty services (depending on state‑approved offerings)
Online Courses / Online Learning
Appalachian Beauty School does not appear to offer any fully online courses. The nature of cosmetology training — hands‑on skills, practical salon work, physical application — requires in‑person attendance. All major coursework and practical hours are delivered on campus in classrooms or salon‑style labs.
Degrees
Appalachian Beauty School does not grant traditional academic degrees (e.g. associate’s or bachelor’s). Instead, it provides a vocational certificate/diploma — cosmetology license‑preparation credentials.
Summer School
There is no publicly available indication that the school offers a separate “summer school” program. The cosmetology program operates on a continuous enrollment basis, and courses may follow a standard schedule over 15 months rather than traditional academic semesters.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average / Reported Range / Notes |
|---|---|
| SAT | Not applicable / not required |
| ACT | Not applicable / not required |
| GRE | Not applicable |
Standardized academic test scores are not relevant for admission to this vocational cosmetology school; admission is based on other criteria (see below).
Retention and Graduation Rates
According to the most recent data, the retention rate for full-time students is reported as 100%, suggesting that once enrolled, students generally persist through the program. The graduation (completion) rate is about 65%, indicating that a substantial portion of enrollees complete the 1500‑hour curriculum and earn their cosmetology certification.
Appalachian Beauty School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Because Appalachian Beauty School is a vocational trade school focused on cosmetology, admissions do not heavily rely on prior academic metrics. There is no public evidence that a high school GPA threshold or SAT/ACT scores are required. Admission is primarily based on application, possibly interview or evaluation, and acceptance into the cosmetology program.
Appalachian Beauty School Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Rate / Note |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly quantified but available data show total enrollment numbers small — admission appears open to most applicants who meet basic criteria (i.e. completion of application and any state‑mandated prerequisites) |
Because the school functions more like a trade/beauty program than a selective university, “acceptance rate” is less meaningful; available data suggest a relatively open admission policy.
Appalachian Beauty School Application Requirements
Prospective students must complete an application form and pay any associated application fee (some sources note a $100 application fee). Applicants must provide proof of identity and eligibility to study; high school diploma or GED may be required depending on state licensing rules. Because the program is vocational and state‑regulated, there may be additional requirements such as age, residency, or mandatory licensing prerequisites. Financial aid applicants must also complete necessary aid‑related paperwork. Admissions staff may require an interview or orientation session to ensure applicants understand the program requirements, time commitment, and financial obligations.
Application Process
- Fill out and submit the application form (including any application fee)
- Provide necessary documentation (ID, high school diploma or GED, transcripts if applicable)
- Attend an orientation or interview (if required by the school)
- Enroll in cosmetology program and begin coursework
Appalachian Beauty School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Note | Information |
|---|---|
| Admissions | Rolling admissions — applicants can apply any time, subject to seat availability |
Because the institution is a trade school with small enrollment numbers, it likely admits new students as seats open rather than following fixed semester deadlines.
Essay Prompt
There is no publicly documented standardized essay prompt for admission. The admission process appears to prioritize vocational interest and readiness rather than academic essays.
Appalachian Beauty School Scholarships
Many students receive financial aid. According to school data, a substantial portion of enrolled students reportedly obtain grants or scholarships; aid packages reduce the net cost of tuition for eligible students. The average financial aid awarded is around $5,371 for those who qualify.
Appalachian Beauty School Tuition Fees (Costs)
| Cost Type | Amount (2024–2025) |
|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees (Cosmetology, 1500‑hour program) | $12,365 |
| Books & Supplies (estimated) | $860 |
If a student lives off‑campus, additional living costs will apply (housing, meals, transportation), but these are not part of school tuition and vary widely by individual circumstances.
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
From publicly available data: the gender distribution is heavily skewed female — approximately 95% female, 5% male. Among a small sample, racial/ethnic composition appears overwhelmingly White, with minor representation from “Two or More races.” Data on age distribution are limited, but as a trade/beauty school, students likely range from recent high school graduates to adult learners seeking a career change.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
The school reports that more than 80% of students receive some form of financial aid (grants or scholarships), which suggests a relatively high proportion may come from lower‑income backgrounds or those needing financial support. Specific data on students with disabilities are not publicly available; there is no clear documentation of institutional accommodations or support services tailored to disabilities.
Student Body
| Category | Number / Percentage |
|---|---|
| Total Students | 43–61 (recent data varies) |
| Undergraduate (vocational) | 100% |
| Female Students | ~95% |
| Male Students | ~5% |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | ~20:1 |
University Diversity
Given the small size and specialized focus of Appalachian Beauty School, diversity — both demographic and experiential — is limited compared to larger institutions. The student body is overwhelmingly female and majority White, with minimal representation from other racial or ethnic backgrounds. However, the nature of a trade/beauty school means students may vary in age and life experience: some may be fresh out of high school, others may be adult learners looking for a new career path. The high rate of financial aid suggests the school serves students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Because the program emphasizes vocational training rather than broad academic curricula, diversity in personal background and goals may matter more than traditional campus‑diversity metrics. The small community and intimate instructor-to-student ratio may foster a supportive environment, though prospective students should be aware that cultural or demographic variety may be limited.
Average Earnings
The publicly available data does not provide a verified alumni earnings survey for Appalachian Beauty School graduates. As a cosmetology school, graduate earnings will vary significantly depending on licensing, employment type (salon, freelance, self-employed), location, and hours worked. Typically, cosmetology professionals may start at entry-level salon wages, possibly supplemented by commissions or tips. For many, income may grow over time, but given the variability, the school cannot guarantee specific earnings outcomes. Prospective students interested in financial return should research local salon/beauty‑industry wage data in their area and consider licensure, experience, and employment setting when estimating potential income.
Graduation Rate
The stated graduation (program completion) rate at Appalachian Beauty School is approximately 65%, indicating that a majority but not all enrolled students complete the cosmetology program successfully.
Appalachian Beauty School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Appalachian Beauty School maintains a small staff: recent data lists 2 full-time instructional (teaching) staff and 4 full-time non‑instructional (administrative/support) staff. This reflects the small overall size of the institution and supports the 20:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Given this ratio and modest enrollment, students are likely able to receive more personalized attention and hands‑on instruction than in large, crowded programs.
Faculty Profiles
Detailed public profiles of individual instructors (names, credentials, specialties) are not broadly published. However, because the school is accredited by NACCAS and licensed by the state cosmetology board, faculty are required to meet professional standards for cosmetology instruction and licensure qualifications. Given the breadth of cosmetology training (hair, styling, coloring, possibly esthetics/nail technology), faculty presumably have industry experience in salon work and teaching, enabling them to cover both theoretical and practical components. The small faculty size may foster consistency and strong relationships between instructors and students, though it may limit the diversity of specializations and elective offerings.
Appalachian Beauty School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Appalachian Beauty School does not appear to offer on‑campus housing; it is primarily a vocational school rather than a traditional residential college. Students typically arrange their own living accommodations off‑campus. Housing and living expenses are not included in tuition and vary depending on where a student lives. Given the rural or small-town setting (Belfry, Kentucky, in the Appalachian region), available housing options may be limited or modest; prospective students should investigate local rentals, commute possibilities, and living costs in advance. Social life, extracurricular offerings, or campus‑style amenities appear limited — the institution’s focus is on cosmetology training rather than traditional college life.
Transportation
Because the school serves a rural or semi-rural region (Belfry, KY), transportation is likely personal-vehicle dependent. Public transportation options may be limited or infrequent. Students commuting from nearby towns may need to drive or arrange rides. Since the school does not offer dormitories, students living off-campus should consider commute time, fuel costs, and accessibility when enrolling. On-campus mobility within the facility is likely straightforward given small size, but broader access (to internships or salon affiliates) would depend on personal transport.
Job Openings
While the school does not publish a formal job‑board, the cosmetology program equips students with licensure‑qualifying credentials, enabling them to seek employment as hairstylists, salon technicians, nail techs, or in related beauty services. Graduates can potentially find work in local salons, spas, barber shops, or start freelance/self-employed beauty services. Because the school serves a small community, job availability will depend heavily on regional demand. Graduates may benefit from networking within local beauty‑service markets; success may require proactive job search, licensing exams, and possibly relocation depending on client demand.