The Hairstylist Diploma Program is approved as a Vocational Program under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005. This comprehensive program provides students with the theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical skills required to enter the professional hairstyling industry with confidence and competence.
Delivered in a condensed three-semester format, the program allows students to complete their diploma in less than one year through a progressive combination of classroom instruction and supervised practical training. The curriculum follows a Ministry-approved standard and is supported by the Milady Cosmetology textbook and workbooks, which serve as primary learning and reference resources throughout the program.
Students are introduced to professional legislation, health and safety standards, infection prevention and control, ethical practice, communication skills, and entrepreneurial principles required for successful employment in the hairstyling profession. Emphasis is placed on both technical excellence and professional conduct to ensure graduates are prepared for real-world salon environments.
The program places strong focus on hands-on skill development in all major areas of hairstyling, including cutting, styling, colouring, chemical services, and hair design. Students also receive specialized training in working with diverse hair textures, including advanced cutting, colouring, smoothing, and styling techniques.
With a total duration of 38 weeks, the Hairstylist Diploma Program prepares graduates for careers in a fast-paced and evolving beauty industry.
Graduates will demonstrate competency in:
Hair cutting and shaping
Hairstyling and finishing
Permanent waving and thermal waving
Chemical relaxing and smoothing
Hair colouring and toning
Lightening and bleaching
Hair extensions and additions
Braiding and up-dos
Students also gain experience in salon operations, including the use of industry-standard salon software. Training is reinforced through supervised practice in the Salon, Spa, and Boutique, where students provide services to real clients while applying professional standards of hygiene, safety, and customer service.
Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are granted 1,500 hours toward the 3,500 hours required for apprenticeship in Ontario. Once apprenticeship requirements are met, graduates may write the provincial licensing examination to become certified professional hairstylists.
Graduates may pursue employment as:
Hairstylist
Colour Technician
Salon or Spa Manager
Beauty Consultant
Sales Representative for beauty product manufacturers or distributors
Self-employed salon professional
Employment opportunities exist in salons, spas, health clubs, resorts, cruise ships, beauty institutes, and retail cosmetic environments.
Hair Design
Hair and Scalp Care
Hair Cutting and Styling Techniques
Shampooing, Rinsing and Conditioning
Professional Blow-Drying
Up-Dos, Extensions and Braiding
Permanent, Spiral and Thermal Waving
Hair Colouring and Toning
Bleaching and Tinting
Chemical Hair Relaxing
Hair Additions
Foils – Highlights and Lowlights
Barbering Techniques
Business of Cosmetology
Communicating for Success
Your Professional Image
The Salon Business
To be eligible for enrollment, applicants must meet one of the following:
Grade 12 (Canadian) diploma or equivalent
OR
18 years of age with a passing score on a Superintendent-approved entrance test
All applicants must participate in a personal interview to assess suitability for the program.
Applicants who do not meet standard academic requirements may be admitted through an alternative admission assessment, provided evidence of probable success can be demonstrated.
Total Hours: 1,500
Duration: 38 weeks
Schedule: Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
