Paul Mitchell The School (Federal Way)
1. General Information
Overview
Paul Mitchell The School in Federal Way is a leading institution dedicated to providing professional education in cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, and salon management. As part of the prestigious Paul Mitchell Schools network, this campus is designed to equip students with the technical skills, creative vision, and business acumen needed for successful careers in the beauty industry. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing students to practice in fully functional salons under the guidance of experienced instructors. Courses focus on contemporary hair cutting, coloring, styling, makeup artistry, skincare, and client service.
Students also learn essential business management principles, preparing them to excel in salon environments or launch their own businesses. Paul Mitchell The School (Federal Way) is committed to fostering an environment that nurtures creativity, professionalism, and innovation. The campus culture promotes collaboration, mentorship, and community involvement, giving students both the practical skills and confidence necessary to thrive in the competitive beauty industry. Graduates leave ready to pass licensing exams and pursue rewarding careers as licensed cosmetologists, barbers, estheticians, or salon entrepreneurs.
Contact Information
Address: 33917 13th Ave S, Federal Way, WA 98003
Phone Number: (253) 941-5070
Email Address: federal-way@paulmitchell.edu
School Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 2007 |
| School Type | Private Cosmetology School |
| Motto | “Live Beautifully” |
| Accreditation | National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences (NACCAS) |
| Campus Setting | Urban |
Paul Mitchell The School (Federal Way) Rankings
| Category | Ranking |
|---|---|
| National Cosmetology School Ranking | Recognized among top vocational beauty schools in Washington State |
| Global Ranking | Not ranked globally |
2. Paul Mitchell The School (Federal Way) Academics
Paul Mitchell The School (Federal Way) Faculties / Departments
- Cosmetology Department
- Barbering Department
- Esthetics Department
- Hair Color and Styling Department
- Makeup and Skincare Department
- Business & Salon Management Department
Paul Mitchell The School (Federal Way) Courses Offered and Programs / Majors
- Cosmetology Diploma
- Barbering Diploma
- Esthetics Diploma
- Advanced Hair Coloring Techniques
- Makeup Artistry
- Nail Technology (if available)
- Salon Management and Business Skills
- Professional Development and Licensing Preparation
Online Learning
Paul Mitchell The School (Federal Way) primarily emphasizes hands-on practical training, but selected theoretical coursework is available online. Online modules cover subjects such as business fundamentals, client consultation, cosmetology theory, and health and safety practices. These online components provide flexibility for students who balance work or personal commitments, supplementing in-person learning with digital access to lectures, quizzes, and assignments. Faculty remain accessible through virtual office hours, email support, and online mentorship, ensuring students receive guidance comparable to traditional classroom experiences.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | Not required |
| ACT | Not required |
| GRE | Not applicable |
| Cosmetology Licensing Exam Pass Rate | Typically 80-90% |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Retention and graduation rates are supported through individualized mentorship, small class sizes, and structured curricula. Students benefit from extensive hands-on experience in student-run salons, personalized feedback from instructors, and access to industry-standard tools and techniques. These resources help maintain student engagement and prepare graduates for licensure exams and successful careers. The supportive learning environment contributes to strong student retention and timely completion of programs.
3. Paul Mitchell The School (Federal Way) Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Admission does not require SAT or ACT scores, and there is no minimum GPA requirement. The school prioritizes a student’s motivation, creativity, and readiness for a professional career in the beauty industry. Applicants are expected to have a high school diploma or equivalent, demonstrate commitment to hands-on training, and show an interest in cosmetology or related disciplines.
Paul Mitchell The School (Federal Way) Acceptance Rate
| Admission Type | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| General Admission | Open enrollment based on program availability |
Paul Mitchell The School (Federal Way) Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a completed application form and provide proof of high school graduation or GED. A personal interview is typically conducted to evaluate career goals, creativity, and readiness for a hands-on learning environment. Students must complete health documentation, including immunizations, and may attend an orientation before beginning classes. The admissions process is designed to ensure students are prepared for the intensive training required to succeed in the cosmetology and beauty industries.
Application Process
- Submit completed application form
- Provide high school diploma or GED
- Attend personal interview
- Submit health and immunization documentation
- Complete orientation session
- Review program details and schedule
- Begin classes
Paul Mitchell The School (Federal Way) Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Term | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall Start | Rolling admission |
| Spring Start | Rolling admission |
| Summer Start | Rolling admission |
Essay Prompt
No formal essay is required; however, applicants may discuss their career aspirations, creativity, and reasons for pursuing a cosmetology or beauty career during the interview process.
Paul Mitchell The School (Federal Way) Scholarships
Scholarships include merit-based awards, need-based grants, and Paul Mitchell Schools network scholarships. Financial aid options are available to support students through federal grants, loans, and flexible payment plans. Counselors assist students in identifying eligible funding opportunities to ensure access to education.
Paul Mitchell The School (Federal Way) Tuition Fees
| Program | Tuition (Estimated) | Books & Supplies | Total Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetology Diploma | $20,000 | $2,500 | $22,500 |
| Barbering Diploma | $18,500 | $2,000 | $20,500 |
| Esthetics Diploma | $15,000 | $1,500 | $16,500 |
| Advanced Hair Coloring Program | $5,000 | $500 | $5,500 |
| Makeup Artistry | $6,000 | $500 | $6,500 |
4. Student Profile and Demographics – Paul Mitchell The School (Federal Way)
Student Demographics
The student body at Paul Mitchell The School (Federal Way) is diverse in age, gender, and cultural background. While many students enroll directly after high school, the campus also attracts adult learners seeking career changes or advanced professional training. Female students dominate programs like cosmetology and esthetics, while barbering and advanced styling courses attract male students. Ethnic and cultural diversity enriches learning and fosters collaboration, creativity, and cross-cultural understanding. Small class sizes ensure individualized attention, mentorship, and skill development, supporting all students in achieving academic and professional goals.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
The school provides financial support for low-income students through scholarships, grants, and flexible payment plans. Students with documented disabilities can request accommodations in classroom and practical lab settings, ensuring equitable access to education. The school promotes inclusion, offering resources to help all students succeed in demanding hands-on programs while preparing for licensure and employment.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Students | Approximately 400-500 |
| Full-Time Students | Majority |
| Part-Time Students | Minority |
| International Students | 5% |
| Average Class Size | 12-18 |
University Diversity
Paul Mitchell The School (Federal Way) places strong emphasis on diversity and inclusivity. Students from various racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds collaborate in classrooms, labs, and student salons, enriching peer learning and creative exchange. Cultural sensitivity, respect for diverse perspectives, and teamwork are integral to training, preparing students to serve a wide range of clients in professional beauty settings. Faculty and staff support diversity through mentorship, community outreach, and professional development, fostering an inclusive environment where creativity, talent, and professionalism thrive. Students graduate with cultural awareness and the interpersonal skills needed to succeed in diverse salon environments.
Average Earnings
Graduates from Paul Mitchell The School (Federal Way) often begin their careers with competitive salaries in cosmetology, barbering, or esthetics. Income can be enhanced through tips, commissions, freelance work, or opening independent salons. Graduates who specialize in advanced techniques or business management may see accelerated earning potential. The school supports career readiness through placement assistance, licensure preparation, and professional networking, enabling students to maximize career opportunities and establish financially sustainable careers in the beauty industry.
5. Paul Mitchell The School (Federal Way) Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The faculty consists of experienced professionals with extensive training in cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, and salon management. They provide mentorship, hands-on instruction, and career guidance, ensuring students develop both technical expertise and professional confidence. Administrative staff assist with enrollment, scheduling, financial aid, and student services, creating a supportive and organized campus environment that promotes success.
Faculty Profiles
Instructors are licensed cosmetologists, barbers, or estheticians with years of industry experience. Many have participated in competitions, professional workshops, and industry events, bringing current techniques and trends into the classroom. Faculty expertise spans cutting, coloring, styling, skincare, makeup, and salon operations. They mentor students in practical skills, creativity, and professional development, preparing graduates for licensure, employment, and entrepreneurship within the beauty industry.
6. Paul Mitchell The School (Federal Way) Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
The Federal Way campus fosters a vibrant, creative, and collaborative learning environment. Students gain practical experience in fully equipped salons, participate in competitions, and attend workshops to enhance skills and professional development. On-campus housing is not provided, but staff offer guidance on local accommodations. Extracurricular activities, professional events, and community engagement initiatives promote personal growth, leadership, and networking opportunities, complementing the technical and creative training received in the classroom and salon labs.
Transportation
The campus is accessible by major roads, public transportation, and commuter options. Students can travel via personal vehicles, buses, or ridesharing, with convenient parking available. The campus layout facilitates easy movement between classrooms, labs, and student salons, ensuring smooth access to all academic, practical, and administrative resources. Transportation options support student attendance and engagement in all aspects of the program.