Olive-Harvey College (OHC) and City Colleges of Chicago (CCC) announced in January the launch of a new barbering program. It prepares Early College students to earn an Associate in Applied Science degree or an Advanced Certificate in barbering while gaining the technical and business skills needed to succeed in the industry both as a barber and a business owner of a barber shop.
As part of the Chicago Roadmap and in the spring of 2026, Olive-Harvey College will offer dual-credit barbering to high school students who participate in Early College, creating a clear, early pathway from high school to a career while expanding access to other college-level pathways.
“I’m thrilled to share that this new barbering program will create new opportunities for people to build a thriving career, open small businesses, and serve our city with pride,” said City Colleges of Chicago Chancellor Juan Salgado.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for barbers and hairstylists will grow by about 7–10% from 2020 to 2030, a rate faster than the average for many other occupations.
“This new program demonstrates Olive-Harvey College’s continued commitment to providing career education that leads to meaningful employment, and right here on the South Side,” OHC President Kimberly Hollingsworth said. “With demand for barbering on the rise in Chicago and across the country, more people are seeking personalized grooming services and entrepreneurial opportunities like this. I’m thrilled we can offer students this program and while they are still in high school.”
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Early College students will have access to state-of-the-art training facilities, modern barbering tools and instruction from licensed and experienced professionals. Those pursuing the degree path will also learn about the business side of barbering from operations, marketing and finance to insurance and licenses necessary in the City of Chicago and beyond.
In addition, credits are stackable as Olive-Harvey College students pursue either an Advanced Certificate or an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in barbering. Students who successfully complete the certificate or degree program are eligible to take the Illinois Barber Examination.
“These classes provide students with the opportunity to acquire the skills needed for success in the barbering industry immediately after high school and determine if they are interested in pursuing this career path,” said Macquiline King, interim CEO/superintendent of Chicago Public Schools.
The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes haircutting, shaving, grooming, sanitation, customer service and shop management. It equips students with the technical expertise, business acumen, and creative skills needed to excel as licensed barbers and entrepreneurs.
Earning dual credit through CPS Early College program means students can graduate high school with college credits and up to an associate degree which helps lower future college costs. As part of the Chicago Roadmap, this partnership targets underserved students, helping close opportunity gaps by connecting them to high-demand, family sustaining-wage careers. Early College also ensures a smoother transition to college. Programs like barbering help build a skilled local workforce aligned with industry needs.
“When I heard from my middle school principal here at Olive-Harvey College that a barber shop class was opening up, I was excited. I truly felt joy. I want to be barber. I love learning and being the best possible version of myself that I can be. I want to cut hair with excellence, and I want to have my license by the time I’m 18 years old so I can cut hair and have my own shop,” said student Gregory L. “I hope to one day be able to cut the hair of people who don’t have enough money for a haircut or are wondering where their next meal is coming from. I want to do this because I want them to know they matter and are seen and are special.”
The barbershop build-out was made possible through funding from the Workforce Education Initiative, with contributions from the City of Chicago, City Colleges of Chicago and the State of Illinois, and with the support of elected officials.
This article was originally published here.