Hairstylist

Diploma Program

Hairstylist

Train for a career that’s always in demand — and never outsourced. NIWE’s Hairstyling Diploma is one of the only programs in Calgary that prepares you for both your government licensing exam and your apprenticeship — so you graduate job-ready and credential-ready from day one.

Graduate Ahead of the Competition

NIWE Academy

Your Future as a Hairstylist

Whether you want to build a book at a high-end salon, go independent, or eventually own your own space — a NIWE Hairstyling Diploma gives you the foundation to do all of it. This is a trade. Master it here, and it’s yours for life.

Meet the Mentor

Before orientation begins, get to know the experienced industry professional who will guide you through your diploma program — so you can walk in with confidence on day one.

Terri-Lee Quinn

instructor

Terri-Lee Quinn has 30 years of experience in hairstyling.

Alison Lewis

instructor

Alison Lewis has 30 years of experience in the hair industry.

Kelly Kotsias

instructor

Kelly Kotsias has 30 years of experience in the hair industry.

Hairstylist Diploma Program

Built around the TradeSecrets standard. Designed to get you licensed and employed.

NIWE Academy’s Hairstyling Diploma is the perfect choice whether you aspire to become a salon owner, personal stylist, or pursue any career in-between. Our comprehensive curriculum equips you with an impeccable skill set and a diverse professional portfolio that will set you apart in the industry.

At NIWE, we follow a cumulative curriculum, ensuring that each foundational skill builds upon the next. We stand apart from the rest because we are an educational institution first, and a salon for your practical experience second. Our focus is on providing holistic training for each module required by TradeSecrets, ensuring our students master the fundamental skills needed for success in obtaining their license. As a student-focused school, we emphasize the importance of practicing the basics and foundational techniques which are essential for passing industry exams and building a solid career in hairstyling-not over-prioritizing trendy services, or client volume. This approach sets you on the path to mastering your craft with confidence. From coloring and cutting to texturing and barbering, you will develop the technical skills required by TradeSecrets to seamlessly transition into your apprenticeship and succeed on your government licensing exam. we are serious about your first step in the industry, and that is why our program also includes licensing exam preparation at no additional cost, providing you with the tools and knowledge needed to enter and exit your apprenticeship with ease.

We understand that hairstyling is a passion-driven profession, and at NIWE, we harness the power of transformation to bring beauty to the community. As part of our program, you will gain real-world experience through both in- salon practicum and off-campus volunteering and service projects. these opportunities will allow you to work with diverse clients, support local communities, build your resume and portfolio, enrich your hands-on training, and see the difference your gifts and talent bring to the world.

Enroll in our hairstylist Diploma Program today and embark on a rewarding journey towards a successful, fulfilling career in hairstyling!

0 Weeks

Intensive hands-on diploma training

0 Hours

In-class, practical, and clinical experience

Our Curriculum

32 weeks of hands-on training — built around the skills salons actually hire for.

Fundamentals of Hair Design

  • Station Set-up
  • Braiding Fundamentals
  • Sectioning, Shampooing & Conditioning
  • Round Brush Blow Dry
  • Barrel Curls & Pincurls
  • 50/50 Wet Set
  • Wash & Wrap Dry

Barbering Fundamentals

  • Medium Length/45 Degree Haircut
  • Men’s Fades
  • Men’s Taper
  • Taper Cuts with Guards
  • Straight Razor Hot Shaves
  • Barbering Tools Maintenance & Set Up
  • Scissors Over Comb/ Clipper Over Comb Techniques

Haircutting Essentials

  • Solid Form/0 Degree Haircut
  • Diagonal Forward Haircut
  • Diagonal Back Haircut
  • Long Layers/180 Degree Haircut
  • Texturizing
  • Uniform/90 Degree Haircut
  • Identifying Haircut Techniques
  • Inverted Bob

Color Basics

  • Colour Theory Basics
  • Natural Levels
  • Difference of Lighteners
  • Difference of Developers
  • Grey Coverage & Processing Times
  • Colour Line & Book
  • Colour Tools
  • Root Retouch
  • Solid Colour Application

Lightening Principles

  • Full Head Foils
  • Slicing & Weaving Foils
  • Balayage Application
  • Ombre Application
  • V-shape/Triangle Placement
  • Backcombing Technique
  • Dry Brushing Technique
  • 4 Quadrant Colouring Technique

Perms

  • Perm Wraps
  • Perm Application
  • Beard Perms
  • Water Perm

Marketing

  • Promoting to Clients
  • Social Media Marketing
  • Pricing & Packages

More than just hairstyling. NIWE’s curriculum includes Barbering Fundamentals — giving you the versatility to serve more clients and stand out in any salon environment.

We don’t just teach you how to cut hair. We teach you how to build a business around it. Promoting to clients, social media, pricing, and packages — because the best stylists are also the best at running their chair like a business.

Finance Options

Tuition shouldn’t be the reason you don’t go after this.

NIWE offers student loan options and in-house financing with up to 0% interest while you’re in the program — so you can start building your career without putting your life on hold.

Flexible Scheduling

NIWE’s blended learning model is built for real life. Whether you’re working, parenting, or managing other commitments — you don’t have to put everything on hold to build your career.

See if our flexible schedule fits your work-school-life balance! Check out our upcoming intakes to join our Hairstyling Program. Program:

May 2026 (Weekday)
June 2026 (Weekend)
September 2026 (Weekday)
November 2026 (Weekend)

Next Steps

Ready to get started? Here’s what happens next. Apply now and one of our admissions advisors will reach out to walk you through everything — no pressure, just answers.

Once enrolled and after orientation, you’ll gain exclusive access to our state-of-the-art facilities and our all-inclusive online library, giving you the tools to complete your unique blend of virtual theory and hands-on training with our highly qualified beauty and business mentors.

We’ll be with you every step of the way- guiding you from theory to practice to ensure that you not only ace your exams with top marks, but also graduate ready to join our NIWE Alumni in the industry, living their dream jobs.

Frequently asked questions

Yes — exam preparation is built into the curriculum at no additional cost. NIWE's Hairstyling Diploma is built around the TradeSecrets licensing standard, ensuring you're fully prepared to pass your exam and enter your apprenticeship.

Hairstyling covers a broader range of services including cuts, colour, perms, and styling for all hair types. Barbering focuses on men's services — fades, tapers, beard grooming, and straight razor shaves. NIWE's Hairstyling program also includes Barbering Fundamentals as part of the curriculum, giving you cross-trained versatility.

No prerequisites are required.

Your Dream Career combined with your Dream Beauty School is Calling.

At NIWE Academy, we are dedicated to providing an unparalleled, world-class education in the beauty industry. Join the ranks of successful NIWE Graduates and be the future change-maker. Embrace the opportunity to achieve financial freedom and a rewarding work-study-life balance with a diploma or certification from NIWE Academy.