Lemon Grove 619-735-1717 Chula Vista 619-754-6188

Technique-First Training Building Salon-Ready Confidence

Beauty school can be where you decide to get serious about your future. At Alva Beauty Collective, you will build confidence through consistent practice and technique-first training. Your progress feels real here because you aren’t just learning concepts. You are learning to do the work with your own hands.

Our Cosmetology Program keeps the theory portion of required hours online, so you can study from home at your own pace. Then you’ll come to campus for hands-on sessions built around demonstrations and guided practice with plenty of instructor feedback and support. You’ll strengthen those technical skills and build professional habits that matter in real salon settings.
Alva Beauty Collective offers small class sizes and bilingual instruction in English and Spanish. We can help you take steps toward your future goals with one focused week of training at a time. Learn more about our Cosmetology Program and how to start enrollment today.

Cosmetology Training That Prioritizes Real Technique

Our training is built around developing your skills, not memorizing theory. 

Alva Beauty Collection is technique-first because we believe students deserve a training experience that makes them feel capable of taking on work in real salons. Our goal is to help you build repeatable beauty skills through practice and feedback. First, you learn the concepts behind the service, then you’ll put those concepts into practice until your skills and technique feel totally natural. 

Cosmetology Program Highlights

  • Hybrid flexibility: Complete the theory portion of your required state hours online from home, so studying can fit around work, family, and life.
  • Technique-first training: In-person classes meet three days a week for four hours per session, with hands-on demonstrations and guided practice built into every class hour.
  • Bilingual instruction: Courses are available in English and Spanish, supporting a wider range of learners.
  • State-approved curriculum: Training aligns with California State Board requirements and is designed to help you prepare to sit for the state board exam.
  • Instructor-led coaching: Learn from experienced educators who give practical feedback and mentorship as skills develop.
  • Salon-relevant environment: Train in a clean, organized setting built to reflect a working salon experience.
  • Current techniques and tools: Build skills that reflect modern services, with training that evolves alongside industry standards and technology.
  • Student support: Get guidance beyond technique, including career conversations and interview preparation resources (employment is not guaranteed).

Get Your Start in Cosmetology

Contact Our Team for More Info!

Payment Plans Available

Alva Beauty Collective offers in-house payment plan options designed to make training more manageable. Plans may include no credit checks and 0% interest options, depending on the plans available at the time of enrollment. During a campus tour or visit with our admissions team, they will explain your payment plan options and help you create a plan that works with your budget.

Cosmetology Program FAQs

How long is the Cosmetology Program?

Our Cosmetology Program includes 1,000 clock hours, which is in line with state board requirements. Our Cosmetology program is designed to be completed in 9–10 months. Students receive hands-on training and online theory instruction to prepare for licensure and a career in the beauty industry. The admissions team can help you create a realistic timeline based on your schedule.

Do you offer financial aid for the Cosmetology Program?

Yes! We offer TFC financing, MYCAA funding, and in-house payment plans to help make your education more accessible. Our admissions team can help guide you through the available options and find a plan that works best for you.

What is the hybrid learning model?

Our hybrid learning model combines online theory instruction with in-person hands-on training. Students complete theory assignments online at their own pace and on their own schedule; however, a minimum of 12 theory hours per week is required to remain on track in the program.
In-person class time is dedicated to practical training, including demonstrations, guided practice, and working with real clients in our student salon under the supervision of licensed professionals. This structure allows students to focus on developing hands-on skills during class rather than spending in-person time completing textbook-based theory work.

When do classes start?

Orientation is held on the first Thursday of each month and is considered the student’s first day of school. Students begin their regular class schedule the following week after completing orientation.

What's the difference between Cosmetology and Barbering?

Cosmetology offers broader training in hair, skincare, and nails. Licensed cosmetologists are able to offer a wider service menu. Barbering is more focused on men’s grooming services, such as short cuts and fades, and facial hair maintenance. If you aren’t sure which path is better suited for your goals, talk to our team. We can help you determine the best path based on your goals, schedule, and interests.

Do I need any experience before starting cosmetology school?

No experience needed! We welcome students from all walks of life, whether you are an experienced at-home beauty expert or have never cut hair before. Our training starts with the fundamentals and builds from there, so you can develop your skills no matter your experience level. If you are curious about what training looks like, schedule a tour to see our classrooms in action.

See what our students have to say

My experience at this beauty school has been a dream come true! I am excited to be a part of the Cosmetology program offered here with amazing educators like Amber and Daisy and the front desk staff is always so friendly and welcoming. I’m new at this program and already learned so much!

Denise B.

Thoroughly enjoyed my time at ALVA, loved building connections with my instructors/classmates while learning up to date techniques in the manicurist business world. Really appreciated getting real-world beauty service experiences. Also had so much fun while there!💕

Fernanda A.

After being in the dental field for 23 years I decided to go back to school To follow a passion of cutting hair. ALVA was a perfect opportunity to get the schooling I needed to be able to qualify for state board exam and not break the bank. The speedy curriculum and flexible hours made this possible for me. As a Mom and full time employee I needed that flexibility. They were very accommodating when my work schedules changed. The teachers are very knowledgeable on current protocols and techniques. The atmosphere is relaxed but offers the competitiveness that is sometimes helpful in that drive to be better. As one of the older students, I felt right at home and enjoyed the young energy that filled the air. My only regret… Is that I did not do this 23 years ago! The beauty industry is always growing and very competitive when it comes to what you can make financially. I should have done this so long ago!

Rebex Fin

Enrollment Requirements and Next Steps

Ready to explore cosmetology training? To start the enrollment process, you will need:

  • To be 16.5 years old (and must be 17 to take the state licensing exams)
  • A valid state-issued photo ID or passport
  • A Social Security or ITIN number
  • Alva Entrance Assessment
  • No High School diploma or GED required.

The next step is to schedule a campus tour. You’ll get to see our facilities in person and ask questions about the Cosmetology Program. Then you can complete the enrollment forms and submit your documents. Once admitted and enrolled, you can start on any Monday!

See how our hybrid learning model can fit into your life and what in-person learning might look like by scheduling a campus tour now.

Lemon Grove

3139 Lemon Grove Ave,
Lemon Grove, CA 91945

619-735-1717

Chula Vista

1105 Broadway suite 211,

Chula Vista, CA 91911

619-754-6188