ACADEMICS
At the Barber School of Pittsburgh, we don’t just teach haircuts—we shape careers. Our comprehensive Barber Program blends cutting-edge theory with real-world hands-on training, giving you the skills and confidence to thrive in today’s fast-paced barbering industry.
From mastering fades and shaves to understanding the essentials of sanitation, safety, and professional shop etiquette, you’ll gain everything you need to pass the Pennsylvania State Board Exam—and then some. Whether your dream is to work in a top-tier barbershop or open your own, we’ll prepare you to walk out of school ready to lead with clippers in hand and ambition in your heart.
Start strong. Finish licensed. Leave legendary.
Course Goals
Building Skills. Shaping Futures.
By the end of the Barber Program at the Barber School of Pittsburgh, students will:
-
Develop a strong foundation in both theory and hands-on techniques, mastering the skills required for a successful career in barbering.
-
Be fully prepared to confidently take and pass the Pennsylvania State Board Barber Licensing Exams.
-
Gain the knowledge and experience needed to thrive in a professional barbershop or salon as a licensed barber.
-
Be equipped to pursue a variety of barber-related careers, from classic barbering to advanced grooming services.
-
Build strong communication skills and learn how to cultivate successful employer-employee relationships in a dynamic work environment.
This program is more than a course—it's a launchpad for your career in the world of professional barbering.
Course Format
Learn It. See It. Do It. Master It.
Our program is designed to engage every learning style—combining in-depth instruction with immersive, hands-on experience to ensure you retain knowledge and build confidence.
-
Each topic begins with a focused lecture to lay the foundation.
-
Followed by live demonstrations that bring techniques to life.
-
Audio-visual tools and engaging illustrations enhance learning and reinforce key concepts.
-
Worksheets and guided practice blend theory with application for deeper understanding.
-
Written and hands-on assessments track your progress and help identify areas for growth.
This well-rounded format ensures you’re not just learning barbering—you’re living it, one skill at a time.
Mastering the Art of Barbering: Curriculum Overview
At our Barber School of Pittsburgh, every unit is crafted to build confidence, skill, and professionalism. Grounded in the world-renowned Pivot Point curriculum, our courses prepare students for real-world success—whether behind the chair or running the show.
Sanitation & Sterilization
Protect the Craft. Protect Your Clients.
Step into the shop with confidence by mastering industry-standard health and safety protocols. Learn how to properly sanitize and sterilize your tools and workspace, ensuring a clean and professional environment for every client. You’ll practice essential routines that keep your reputation sharp and your clientele safe.
Honing & Stropping
Sharpen Your Skills—Literally.
Learn the essential techniques to keep your straight razor in top condition. This unit covers the proper way to hone and strop your blade, ensuring a smooth, clean shave every time. You'll understand the difference between sharpening and refining the edge, and practice the correct methods to maintain your tools like a pro. Your razor is only as good as its edge—keep it barber-ready.
Straight Razor
Precision, Tradition, and Mastery.
Discover the power of the straight razor—the timeless tool of true barbers. You’ll learn when and why to use it, how to handle it with confidence, and the rituals of proper care. From clean necklines to signature shaves, hands-on practice will hone your precision and elevate your craft.
Shampoo & Scalp Massage
Refresh. Rejuvenate. Relax.
Transform a simple rinse into a luxurious experience. Learn how to properly drape your client, deliver a thorough shampoo, and provide a soothing scalp massage that keeps clients coming back. This unit blends technique with touch, teaching you how to promote hair and scalp health while creating unforgettable service moments.
Facial Massage
Craft Confidence. Glow with Skill.
Learn the art of facial massage using professional tools and techniques that promote relaxation and skin vitality. Discover how to offer more than just a cut—offer an experience. You’ll gain hands-on experience performing facial massages that enhance both skin health and your service menu.
Hair Coloring
Color with Confidence.
Transform more than just appearance—create a whole new vibe. Learn why color matters in barbering, how to select the right shade, and which tools make it happen. You'll explore the full spectrum of color types, perform strand tests, and master application techniques.
Perms & Straightening
Texture Your Way.
Whether you're creating waves or keeping things sleek, this unit covers the art and science of texture services. Learn the tools, techniques, and chemistry behind perms and hair straightening. You’ll perform strand tests, apply solutions with precision, and gain real-world experience in transforming hair texture safely and effectively.
Cutting, Styling & Hairpieces
Cut. Style. Customize.
From classic cuts to creative styles, this unit teaches the foundation of every great look. Learn to work confidently with professional tools, care for your equipment, and deliver tailored haircuts and styles for every client. You’ll also explore the world of hairpieces—how to cut, style, and maintain them with the same skill and precision as natural hair.
Scalp and Skin Diseases
Know What to Look For. Know How to Act.
Understanding common scalp and skin conditions is essential to protecting your clients—and your license. Learn to identify disorders, respond appropriately, and maintain the highest standards of professionalism. This knowledge ensures every client interaction is safe and respectful.
Physiology
Know the Body. Enhance the Experience.
Go beneath the surface to understand how the body works—and why it matters in barbering. Learn the fundamentals of physiology and apply them to your technique, posture, and client care. When you know the "why," you master the "how."
State Barber Regulations
Know the Rules. Protect Your License.
Every great barber knows the rules that shape the profession. In this unit, you’ll explore the laws and regulations that govern barbering, understand where to find them, and learn why they matter.
Bacteriology
Stop the Spread. Start with Knowledge.
Bacteria can’t be seen—but they can be stopped. Learn the science behind bacteria and how it relates to daily barbering practices. Gain the tools to prevent contamination, maintain client trust, and uphold a gold standard in cleanliness.
Hygiene
Clean Barber. Confident Client.
Proper hygiene isn’t just about appearance—it’s about professionalism and respect. Learn how to maintain personal cleanliness, present yourself with pride, and promote a clean work environment.
Shop Management
Lead the Shop. Master the Tools.
Whether you aspire to own a shop or become a team leader, this unit lays the groundwork. Discover the path to becoming a Barber Manager, master daily-use tools, and learn how to care for your equipment like a pro. We’ll also teach you how to handle money, manage your space, and run a successful business with style and strategy.
Electrical Equipment
Power Up Your Skill Set.
Barbering today is as much about tools as it is about technique. In this unit, you’ll learn how to safely operate and maintain all essential electrical equipment—from clippers and trimmers to dryers and steamers.
Ethics and Shop Demeanor
Respect the Craft. Represent the Industry.
Being a barber means more than cutting hair—it means upholding standards of professionalism, integrity, and respect. This unit explores ethics, customer service, and the behaviors that define a successful shop culture.
State Board Practice
Your License Starts Here.
Our comprehensive prep course ensures you're ready for the written and practical exams. With guided practice tests and clinic simulations, you’ll walk into your State Board confident, competent, and career-ready.
EVALUATION & ACHIEVEMENT
MEASURE PROGRESS. CELEBRATE MASTERY.
We’re committed to your success—and that means tracking your growth every step of the way.
Evaluation Procedures
-
Your progress will be assessed through theory, practical, and clinical testing throughout the program.
-
Each unit of study will include its own evaluations to reinforce learning.
-
Live clinic workshops and hands-on practicals will include ongoing performance reviews.
-
A comprehensive final exam will ensure you’re fully prepared for the next step.
Required Level of Achievement
To earn your Certificate of Completion and qualify for the PA Barber State Board Examinations, students must maintain a minimum 75% grade point average throughout the course.
We don’t just help you finish—we help you finish strong, licensed, and career-ready.
