If you’re dreaming about a future in beauty, one of the first questions you might be asking yourself is: “How long does cosmetology school actually take?” The answer matters—especially if you’re balancing work, family, or other responsibilities while planning your career path.

At Aveda Institute New Mexico, we want you to clearly understand what the journey looks like so you can step into your future with confidence. Whether you’re just starting to explore cosmetology school or you’re ready to book a career planning session, this guide covers everything you need to know about program lengths, schedules, and what to expect along the way.

Why Program Length Matters When Choosing a Cosmetology School

Cosmetology is a hands-on, skill-based profession. The time you spend in school shapes:

• Your technical skills
• Your confidence working with real guests
• Your readiness for the New Mexico state licensure exam
• Your long-term career success

Choosing the right schedule can set you up for success from day one. That’s why Aveda Institute New Mexico offers two different program pacing options, helping students choose the pathway that best fits their lifestyle and goals.

How Long Does Cosmetology School Take in New Mexico?

In New Mexico, aspiring cosmetologists must complete a state-approved training program and pass licensing exams. The state requires a minimum of 1,600 hours of training to qualify for licensure. Aveda Institute New Mexico provides two flexible schedule options to help students meet these requirements, allowing them to complete their hours in a way that fits their lifestyle.

Aveda Institute New Mexico Cosmetology Program Lengths

Option 1: Three-Day-Per-Week Schedule (Approximately 63 Weeks)

This schedule is perfect for students who want more balance in their weekly routine—whether you’re juggling work, family life, or other commitments. You’ll attend school just three days a week while still receiving the full Aveda education and training experience.

Approximate completion time: 63 weeks
Best for:

• Parents
• Working students
• Those who prefer a slower, more spacious pace
• Students commuting from outside the immediate area

Even at three days per week, you’ll progress through the same curriculum as the accelerated track—just spread out over a longer timeframe. You’ll still experience hands-on training, product knowledge, theory, and time practicing all the techniques needed to thrive as a cosmetologist.

Option 2: Four-Day-Per-Week Schedule (As Little as 48 Weeks)

If you’re eager to start your cosmetology career as quickly as possible, the four-day-per-week schedule may be the ideal fit. This option is designed for motivated students who want an immersive experience and who are ready to commit more days each week to learning and practicing.

Approximate completion time: As little as 48 weeks
Best for:

• Students ready to enter the workforce quickly
• Those who can commit to more frequent on-campus days
• Anyone who wants an accelerated learning experience

Even in this faster-paced schedule, you’re not sacrificing quality. You’ll complete the same training hours, learn the same techniques, and gain the same hands-on experience—just in a shorter period of time.

What You Can Learn During Your Time at Aveda Institute New Mexico

No matter which schedule you choose, your cosmetology journey is organized into four structured phases. Each phase builds your skills step-by-step, helping you grow from beginner to confident, career-ready professional.

Phase 1 – Foundation

In this introductory phase, you’ll begin building the essential skills every cosmetologist needs. Training includes:

• Fundamentals of hair cutting and styling
• Basic skin and nail care techniques
• Makeup application basics
• Hands-on training in infection control and sanitation
• First aid and safety procedures
• Life skills to support professional growth

This phase lays the groundwork for everything you’ll learn throughout the program.

Phase 2 – Intermediate Training & State Board Prep

As you grow in confidence, you’ll advance into more complex techniques while beginning to prepare for the licensing process.

You’ll learn:

• New Mexico State Board laws and regulations
• Men’s clipper cutting techniques
• Women’s haircutting and styling
• How to work with clients in a clinic setting
• Techniques and skills needed for the State Board Practical Exam, guided by expert educators

This phase combines technical development with real-world practice to help you feel ready for your future exam and career.

Phase 3 – Advanced Techniques

Next, you’ll dive into advanced color and texture services using Aveda’s globally recognized techniques.

Training includes:

• Professional hair coloring and formulation
• Chemical restructuring and texturizing
• Dimensional color application
• Balayage and foiling
• Color correction
• Freehand and specialty color techniques
• Permanent waving methods

By the end of this phase, your technical abilities will expand into mastery-level skill sets.

Phase 4 – Career Readiness & Business Skills

Your final phase prepares you to enter the beauty industry as a confident, job-ready professional.

You’ll receive in-depth training in:

• Client service and communication
• Time management and organizational skills
• Entrepreneurship and operational basics
• Self-promotion and personal branding
• Goal setting for long-term career success
• Merchandising and retailing strategies
• Résumé development and interview preparation

This phase equips you with the professional and business skills needed to thrive in a salon, spa, or entrepreneurial environment.

How to Choose the Right Schedule for You

Choosing between the 63-week and 48-week schedule depends on your lifestyle, goals, and personal commitments. Here are some questions to help make your decision easier:

1. How quickly do you want to enter the workforce?

• If you want to start working as a cosmetologist sooner → 4-day schedule
• If you prefer a slower pace → 3-day schedule

2. What does your current weekly schedule look like?

• Need fewer days on campus? → 3-day schedule
• Available 4 days per week? → 4-day schedule

4. Do you have childcare or work commitments?

Many students choose the three-day schedule because it allows them to balance school with life’s responsibilities. Others prefer a faster approach so they can finish and begin earning sooner.

During your admissions appointment, Aveda Institute New Mexico’s team can help you assess which schedule best aligns with your goals.

Why Students Choose Aveda Institute New Mexico

Time in school is just one part of your journey. Where you choose to learn shapes how prepared, confident, and successful you’ll be as a future beauty professional. Students choose Aveda Institute New Mexico because of:

The Aveda Difference

Clean, plant-powered products, an earth-friendly mission, and a legacy of excellence in beauty education. Our holistic, eco-conscious approach sets us apart and helps students build sustainable practices from day one.

Hands-On Training

You’ll practice real techniques on real guests, in a true salon environment, with the support of licensed educators. Students gain immersive experience through services, community events, fashion shows, and local wedding expos.

A Complete Curriculum

From haircutting to skincare to business and marketing education, you’ll graduate well-rounded, confident, and career-ready. Our curriculum is designed to help you grow your skills, build your brand, and stand out in the industry.

A Supportive Community

Our educators, alumni, and staff are here to guide your path every step of the way, creating a welcoming and encouraging environment for learning and growth.

Career Support

From résumé help to networking opportunities, our goal is to prepare students for long-term success, helping you feel career-ready long before graduation day.

How to Get Started

Beginning cosmetology school is a big step—and we’re here to make it simple. Getting started takes just a few steps:

1. Contact an Admissions Representative

Discuss your goals and find the schedule that works best for you.

2. Explore the Campus

See the classrooms, meet educators, and experience the Aveda culture firsthand.

3. Complete Your Enrollment Requirements

Fill out the required paperwork and choose your preferred schedule.

4. Begin Your Journey in Beauty

Start learning, growing, and preparing for a career you’ll love.

Your Future in Beauty Starts Here

So, how long does cosmetology school take at Aveda Institute New Mexico?
It depends on the schedule you choose:

• 3-day schedule: approximately* 63 weeks

• 4-day schedule: approximately* 48 weeks

What matters even more is what happens during that time—how you train and how prepared you feel to step confidently into your future career. At Aveda Institute New Mexico, we’re dedicated to helping you become a skilled, educated beauty professional ready to make your mark.

If you’re ready to take the next step, we invite you to connect with our Admissions team and explore which cosmetology training schedule is right for you.

*These timelines are estimates and may vary based on each student’s pace.