Navigating Maryland’s Beauty School Landscape: Your Essential Guide to Accreditation Standards Before Enrolling in 2024
Choosing the right beauty school is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your cosmetology career. With Maryland’s evolving regulations and new requirements taking effect in 2024, understanding accreditation standards has never been more crucial for prospective students.
Understanding Maryland’s Dual Regulatory System
In Maryland, cosmetology schools are regulated by the Maryland Higher Education Commission, while the Board of Cosmetologists’ role in opening your school is limited to reviewing and approving the curriculum you intend to offer. This dual oversight system ensures both institutional quality and curriculum compliance.
The Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) is the State’s higher education regulatory and coordinating board, responsible for establishing statewide policies for Maryland public & private colleges and universities, as well as for the for-profit career schools. This means every beauty school must meet MHEC’s institutional standards before they can operate.
Key Accreditation Bodies You Should Know
While Maryland doesn’t require national accreditation for licensure eligibility, understanding different accreditation types helps you make informed decisions:
NACCAS Accreditation
NACCAS is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a national agency for the institutional accreditation of post-secondary schools and departments of cosmetology arts and sciences, including specialized schools. Accreditation means that a school has met national standards of educational performance that have been established by an impartial nongovernmental agency. Through the years, accreditation of schools has been the most authoritative and reliable index of a school’s concern for integrity toward its students and quality education.
While accreditation is not necessary to be a great beauty or cosmetology school, it is important for two primary reasons: It is evidence that the school is committed to very high education standards and, for multi-campus companies, that there is consistency across all campuses. It is required for a school to offer federal financial aid programs, which help make school significantly more affordable for many.
Other Accrediting Bodies
Recognized agencies who accredit beauty schools and cosmetology schools include: NACCAS (National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences) ACCSC (Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges) ACCET (Accrediting Council for Continued Education & Training).
Essential Verification Steps Before Enrolling
1. Confirm State Approval
Cosmetologists must successfully complete a required program of at least 1,500 hours of training in a cosmetology school that is approved by the State Board of Education (MSDE) or the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) in consultation with the Board, while limited estheticians need at least 600 hours of instruction in providing esthetic services in a cosmetology school approved by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) or the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) in consultation with the Board.
Most states require that you graduate from an accredited or state-approved school. Verify that your chosen school appears on MHEC’s approved institution list.
2. Review Curriculum Standards
The Board of Cosmetologists’ role in opening your school is limited to reviewing and approving the curriculum you intend to offer. Please be advised that any curriculum changes to your existing or new school must be communicated with both the Maryland Board of Cosmetologists and the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) prior to implementation.
3. Understand New 2024 Requirements
Maryland has implemented significant changes in 2024. Effective January 1, 2026, The State Legislature- HB 1600, requires Licensees to complete six hours of approved continuing education as a condition of license renewal. While this affects licensed professionals, it demonstrates the state’s commitment to ongoing education standards.
Additionally, in 2024, Maryland Senate Bill 1044 amended the definition of “providing esthetic services,” to include the provision of eyelash extension services. As a result of the two bills, individuals will be required to hold a cosmetologist license, an esthetician license, or a limited eyelash extension license to provide eyelash extension services in Maryland commencing on October 1, 2025.
Financial Aid Considerations
Some esthetician programs offer financial aid provided by Federal Student Aid under the U.S. Department of Education. Some schools offer private school loan options. Schools must be properly accredited to participate in federal financial aid programs, making accreditation verification crucial for students needing financial assistance.
What Makes a Quality Beauty School
When evaluating schools, consider institutions that demonstrate commitment to excellence. For example, if you’re considering a beauty school maryland students should look for programs that offer comprehensive hands-on training, experienced instructors, and strong industry connections. Schools that maintain multiple forms of approval and accreditation often provide more robust educational experiences.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Schools that cannot provide proof of state approval
- Institutions with unclear accreditation status
- Programs that don’t meet minimum hour requirements
- Schools without proper curriculum approval from the Board of Cosmetologists
Your Next Steps
Before enrolling in any Maryland beauty school:
- Verify the school’s approval status with MHEC
- Confirm curriculum approval with the Maryland Board of Cosmetologists
- Check accreditation status if federal financial aid is needed
- Review the school’s completion and job placement rates
- Visit the campus and speak with current students and instructors
The job outlook for cosmetologists in Maryland looks bright. Job growth is projected to increase by 14% between 2020 and 2030. With proper preparation and the right educational foundation, you’ll be well-positioned to succeed in Maryland’s growing beauty industry.
Remember, your education is an investment in your future. Take the time to thoroughly research and verify all accreditation standards before making your decision. The extra effort now will pay dividends throughout your career in the beauty industry.