Victoria’s Academy of Cosmetology
General Information — Victoria’s Academy of Cosmetology
Overview
Victoria’s Academy of Cosmetology is a private career and trade school located in Kennewick, Washington, serving the Tri-Cities area (Kennewick, Pasco, Richland). It is family-owned and was founded in 2001, designed to offer focused training in beauty, wellness, and cosmetology disciplines. The institution emphasizes hands-on, industry-relevant education where students develop both technical skills and professional habits in a salon or spa context. The facility occupies over 16,000 square feet with dedicated labs for cosmetology, esthetics, massage, barbering, and instructional areas, offering a professional environment that mirrors real workplace settings.
The mission is to equip students to enter the workforce with competence, safety awareness, creative growth, and confidence. Because Victoria’s specializes in shorter certificate and diploma programs rather than broad academic degrees, the student body tends to be small, cohorts are tight, and training is intensive. The school is licensed by the Washington State Department of Licensing and accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts & Sciences. It aims to maintain currency in industry standards, use Milady-based curricula, and ensure readiness for state licensing in the cosmetology professions.
Contact Information
Address: 23 West 1st Avenue, Kennewick, Washington 99336
Phone (Main / Appointments): (509) 586-9979
Admissions Phone: (509) 582-8593
Email (general or administrative): kristina@victoriasacademy.edu
School Facts — Victoria’s Academy of Cosmetology
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding / Establishment | 2001 |
| Motto / Mission Statement | To train students for careers in cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, massage, and instructor roles with professional standards |
| Institutional Type | Private career / trade school (for-profit) |
| Accreditation / Licensing | Licensed by Washington State Department of Licensing; Accredited by National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts & Sciences (NACCAS) |
| Campus Setting | Urban / facility in Kennewick, Washington; over 16,000 sq ft |
| Key Focus Areas | Cosmetology, Master Esthetics, Barbering, Massage, Instructor Training, Hair Design |
Victoria’s Academy of Cosmetology Rankings
| Ranking Category | Position / Note |
|---|---|
| National / U.S. Rankings | Not listed in general university ranking systems (specialty trade school) |
| Global / International Rankings | No available global ranking placement |
| Specialty / Trade School Rankings | Recognized locally as a top regional cosmetology trade school in the Tri-Cities area; small student-faculty ratio (5:1) reported |
Victoria’s Academy of Cosmetology Academics
Victoria’s Academy of Cosmetology Faculties / Departments
- Cosmetology Department
- Master Esthetics Department
- Barbering / Hair Design Department
- Massage Therapy Department
- Instructor Training Department
- Student Services & Clinical Support Department
- Licensing & State Compliance Division
Victoria’s Academy of Cosmetology Courses and Programs / Majors
- Certificate in Cosmetology (approx. 12 months)
- Certificate in Master Esthetics (approx. 9 months)
- Certificate in Barbering (approx. 8 months)
- Certificate in Hair Design (approx. 10 months)
- Certificate in Massage Therapy (approx. 6 months)
- Certificate in Instructor Training (approx. 6 months)
- Transfer / credit recognition of prior hours (for qualified students)
Online Learning
Victoria’s Academy of Cosmetology does not appear to offer full degree or certificate programs entirely online, given the hands-on nature of cosmetology training. The curriculum is strongly practice-based, requiring in-lab, clinic, and in-class instruction. Some theory components or supplemental coursework (e.g. safety, sanitation, business theory) may be delivered through online or hybrid modules, but practical skills training largely occurs on campus or in clinic labs.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Score Range / Policy |
|---|---|
| SAT | Not applicable / not used in admissions |
| ACT | Not applicable / not used |
| GRE | Not applicable (graduate programs not offered) |
Because this is a trade school with open admission models rather than a traditional academic institution, there are no published standard test score ranges.
Retention and Graduation Rates
Victoria’s Academy has relatively small cohorts, and publicly available data indicates a retention rate for full-time undergraduates of around 20% (for first-time students returning) in a certain year. The graduation (or completion) rate is more variable depending on program length and student persistence, with some programs designed for shorter durations to facilitate timely completion. Given the concentrated and vocational nature of the education, many students aim to complete within the scheduled certificate durations and begin licensure or employment soon after.
Victoria’s Academy of Cosmetology Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Victoria’s Academy does not require or publish a minimum GPA, SAT or ACT scores. Admission criteria are centered on proof of secondary education (high school diploma or GED) and meeting age and program prerequisites rather than academic test thresholds.
Victoria’s Academy of Cosmetology Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 100% (open enrollment policy) |
Victoria’s Academy of Cosmetology Application Requirements
Applicants must be at least 16 years of age before their desired program start date. They must have completed secondary education (high school diploma or GED). A completed enrollment application form and a nonrefundable application fee (typically $100) are required. Applicants to the Instructor Training program must hold a current Washington State cosmetology/barber/manicurist or esthetician license and have at least two years of experience in their field. Admission also includes an in-person interview or campus tour with an admissions representative. All documentation such as transcripts, identification, and licensing credentials (if relevant) must be submitted in full for review.
Application Process
- Visit or contact the school and schedule a campus tour and consultation
- Complete and submit the enrollment application with required personal details
- Submit proof of secondary education (high school diploma or GED)
- Pay the application fee ($100 nonrefundable)
- For certain programs, submit licensing credentials or work experience (for instructor track)
- Attend interview or admissions meeting with a representative
- Receive acceptance notification
- Complete registration, orientation, and class scheduling
Victoria’s Academy of Cosmetology Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Term / Session | Deadline / Notes |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | Year-round / rolling admission for most programs |
| Cosmetology, Barber, Hair Design | New cohorts begin approximately every six weeks |
| Master Esthetics | Starts in January and July full time |
| Instructor Training & Massage | Open enrollment, flexible start dates |
Essay Prompt
There is no publicly published essay prompt as part of the admissions process at Victoria’s Academy. The selection criteria focus more on interview, motivation, vocational interest, and meeting basic eligibility rather than on written essays.
Victoria’s Academy of Cosmetology Scholarships
Victoria’s Academy offers financial aid options, institutional scholarships, grants, and assistance programs to qualifying students. Applicants are encouraged to complete the FAFSA to assess eligibility for federal grant aid. Institutional and school-level scholarships may be tied to academic performance, demonstration of financial need, or alignment with program goals.
Victoria’s Academy of Cosmetology Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Type | Approximate Cost / Notes |
|---|---|
| Tuition (in-state / standard programs) | $19,500 for full program (as reported in 2021 data) |
| Books, Kit & Supplies | ~ $3,801 additional expenses |
| Net Price / After Aid | Approximately $19,826 (average net cost after financial aid) |
| Fees & Miscellaneous | Application, licensing, lab fees may add to costs |
Student Profile and Demographics — Victoria’s Academy of Cosmetology
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
The majority of students at Victoria’s Academy are female, with male representation being minimal (reports show ~4 % male in one data snapshot). Ethnic composition includes a substantial share identifying as Hispanic or Latino, followed by White, and smaller proportions from other racial or multiracial groups. Many students are adults or nontraditional learners; some enroll after prior work experience or career changes. The age range is wider than in traditional four-year colleges, as the institution serves those entering cosmetology or wellness professions at various life stages.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Victoria’s Academy supports students from varied economic backgrounds by offering financial aid and scholarship opportunities, encouraging completion of FAFSA to access federal grants. While public data on disability accommodations is limited, trade schools generally provide access services and reasonable accommodation practices for students with disabilities, adjusting lab access, instruction methods, or physical support as needed to ensure inclusive participation.
Student Body (Total Students, International Students, etc.)
| Category | Number / Percentage |
|---|---|
| Total Students (Full-Time) | ~19 enrolled full-time in recent year |
| Part-Time Students | 0 (none reported) |
| Female Students | ~ 78.8 % of degree recipients (or cohort) |
| Male Students | ~ 21.2 % |
| International Students | Not specifically reported (primarily domestic enrollment) |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | ~ 5:1 (small cohorts, close instruction) |
University Diversity
Victoria’s Academy of Cosmetology maintains a modest but meaningful level of diversity in its student body, primarily by representing various ethnic groups within the Tri-Cities region and beyond. The inclusion of substantial Hispanic or Latino representation suggests the school appeals beyond a single demographic group and draws from the multicultural community. Because cosmetology is a global and cross-cultural profession, exposure to colleagues with different backgrounds enhances peer learning, stylistic appreciation, and cultural sensitivity in service delivery. The small cohort sizes allow those from different backgrounds to more directly influence class dynamics and encourage cross-cultural exchange in technique, beauty practices, and client relations. The environment fosters respect for varied beauty traditions, communication styles, and cultural norms in service.
Average Earnings
Graduates from Victoria’s Academy typically enter careers in salons, spas, wellness centers, or as instructors in the cosmetology field. Entry-level earnings may vary based on location, clientele, and business model (commission, salary, or self-employment). Some may begin as assistants, booth renters, or junior stylists, gradually increasing income as skills and reputation grow. Over time, experienced cosmetologists, estheticians, massage therapists, or instructors may earn comfortable incomes, especially when building loyal client bases, diversifying services, or operating their own businesses. Therefore, while early earnings can be modest, the vocational model provides avenues for upward mobility, entrepreneurial growth, and passive income through teaching or product lines.
Victoria’s Academy of Cosmetology Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Victoria’s Academy employs experienced instructors, many of whom are licensed professionals in their fields (cosmetology, esthetics, massage, barbering). Because of the small student body, faculty often operate in dual roles — teaching, supervising clinics, mentoring students, maintaining industry certifications, and ensuring compliance with licensing standards. Administrative staff support admissions, student services, financial aid, compliance, and lab operations.
Faculty Profiles, Expertise, Achievements
Faculty typically bring substantial real-world experience from salon, spa, or therapeutic settings. Many hold active licenses in cosmetology disciplines and stay current with industry trends, new techniques, equipment, and safety protocols. Instructors often serve as mentors and role models, offering insight into business practices, client relations, and career development. Their achievements may include successful practice ownership, continuing education leadership, published work in beauty education, community engagement, and contributions to state licensing or professional organizations.
Victoria’s Academy of Cosmetology Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
The campus environment emphasizes functionality, professionalism, and a learning-by-doing culture. Students work in labs, clinic floors, and instructional classrooms, often in uniforms or professional attire. Because Victoria’s is a trade school rather than a residential university, it does not offer on-campus housing. Students are responsible for securing their own housing in the Kennewick / Tri-Cities area. Costs for housing depend on local rental markets. Student life tends to center around clinic days, study groups, industry events, open houses, alumni connections, and extracurricular workshops in beauty and wellness.
Transportation
Victoria’s Academy’s location in Kennewick is accessible by local roads; students typically commute by car, ride-share, or local public transit where available. Parking is likely available nearby. Because the facility is centralized, internal mobility is simple — movement between classrooms, labs, and clinic areas within the same building. The urban or city-context location helps students access local amenities, salons, supply stores, and community resources relevant to their studies.