Problem: Michigan’s Barber and Cosmetology Instructor and School Closure

Jan 5

Preview

Problem

Regarding the number of licensed barbers, barber and cosmetology instructors, and closing institutions in Michigan:

Licensed Barbers: The process to become a licensed barber in Michigan involves completing an 1,800-hour course at a licensed barber college or an apprenticeship program[1]. Despite these pathways, there has been a decline in the number of licensed barbers due to various factors such as the high cost of education, stringent licensing requirements, and a lack of awareness about the profession[2].
Licensed Barber and Cosmetology Instructors: To become a licensed instructor, one must have significant experience as a barber or cosmetologist and complete additional training in teaching[3]. The number of instructors is also affected by similar challenges, including the cost and time required for certification and limited opportunities for professional development[3].
Closing Institutions: Many educational institutions, including barber colleges, have closed over the years due to financial difficulties, declining enrollment, and increased competition from online education platforms[4]. This trend has further reduced access to training programs for aspiring barbers and cosmetologists.

Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach, including increasing funding for education, simplifying licensing processes, and promoting awareness about career opportunities in these fields.

Lansing Barber College Closure

Students feel they’ve been “*Hustled*”.

Who Cares?

The decline in the number of licensed barbers in Michigan can be a concern for several groups:

Barbers and Barbershops: Fewer licensed barbers can mean increased competition and potentially higher demand for services, but it can also lead to longer wait times for customers and increased pressure on existing barbers.
Customers: People who rely on barbers for regular grooming might find it harder to get appointments or may experience longer wait times.
Barber Schools and Training Programs: These institutions might be concerned about declining enrollment and the future of their programs.
Regulatory Bodies: The Michigan State Board of Barbers and other regulatory bodies monitor these trends to ensure there are enough licensed professionals to meet public demand and maintain industry standards.
Local Communities: Barbershops often serve as community hubs, so a decline in barbers can impact the social fabric of neighborhoods.
Michigan Barber School Legacy
The Michigan Barber School, founded in 1947, has been a cornerstone of the Detroit community for over 75 years. It has trained generations of barbers, providing them with the skills and knowledge to succeed in the industry. The school's legacy is intertwined with the history of Detroit and the Black community, making it a vital institution for aspiring barbers.
Recent Barber School Closures in Michigan
Unfortunately, recent closures of barber schools in Michigan, such as the Lansing Barber College, have left many students without a clear path to certification. These closures highlight the need for increased support and resources to ensure that aspiring barbers can complete their training and contribute to their communities.
Supporting Data
- Michigan Labor Statistics: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, barbers in Michigan earn an average annual wage of $41,570. The industry is projected to grow 7% from 2023 to 2033.
- Barber Licensing Statistics: All states require barbers to be licensed. To qualify for a license, candidates typically must graduate from a state-approved barber program and pass an exam. The median hourly wage for barbers in the U.S. was $17.38 in May 2023. The overall employment of barbers is projected to grow 7% from 2023 to 2033, with about 89,100 openings each year.
Call to Action
Join the Barcos Foundation in celebrating the rich culture and community impact of barbershops. Share your own barbershop story, attend our events, and support the growth of licensed barbers and barber instructors. Together, we can continue to build strong, vibrant communities.
Recent legislative changes in Michigan have impacted the barbering and cosmetology professions, including a bill that reduces the required hours for licensed barbers:
1. House Bill 5684 (HB 5684): This bill, signed into law in December 2024, modernizes the cosmetology and skin care professions. It expands the scope of practice for licensed professionals to include services such as noninvasive light therapy, high-frequency treatments, dermaplaning, nonmedical grade chemical peels, and microdermabrasion. Additionally, it allows the use of class 1 medical devices, such as LED light therapy and noninvasive skin care tools
2. House Bill 5683 (HB 5683): This bill complements HB 5684 by further defining the scope of practice and training requirements for cosmetologists and estheticians. It includes provisions for eyebrow lamination and tinting, eyelash extensions and tinting, facial cupping, threading, and spray tans
3. House Bill 5786 (HB 5786): This bill, introduced in 2024, reduces the required hours for barber licensure from 1,800 to 1,500. It also allows prospective barbers to fulfill the time requirement through apprenticeships, working under a licensed barber in a shop instead of attending a barber college. This change aims to make the licensing process more accessible and practical for aspiring barber.
These legislative changes aim to keep up with industry trends and client demands, providing more opportunities for licensed professionals to expand their services and grow their businesses.
How do you think these changes will impact the barbering and cosmetology industry in Michigan?