Beautiful Careers Start Here

3 BEAUTY SCHOOL LOCATIONS IN MINNESOTA

Start your journey towards a successful future in the beauty industry with Nova Academy of Cosmetology. Our three academy’s provide exceptional beauty education and training, empowering our students with the necessary knowledge and expertise to excel as leading professionals in the beauty industry.

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WHY NOVA ACADEMY OF COSMETOLOGY?

Nova Academy of Cosmetology offers an outstanding reputation, experienced instructors, and comprehensive curriculum. With a focus on hands-on training, state-of-the-art facilities, and a supportive learning environment, students can be confident that they will receive the education and preparation needed for a successful career in the beauty industry.
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UNLEASH YOUR CREATIVITY

Attending beauty school at Nova Academy of Cosmetology offers a platform for unleashing your creativity, allowing you to explore and experiment with diverse techniques in hair, skin and nails.

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REAL WORLD KNOWLEDGE

We pride ourselves on offering Prosper U and Beauty as a Business programs, providing our students with comprehensive training not only in technical skills but also in essential business knowledge, enabling them to thrive as well-rounded beauty professionals in the industry.

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AFFORDABILITY & OUTCOMES

Nova Academy of Cosmetology becomes an affordable option for those who qualify thanks to the availability of federal financial aid and self-loans. Nova takes pride in our placement rates and has a high number of graduates who go on to pursue successful careers in their field of choice.

WHAT OUR ALUMNI SAY ABOUT NOVA

Advanced Practice Esthetics Grad
Grad Date: 05/13/2025

I would definitely recommend Nova Academy to anyone looking to go into the esthetics industry. The instructors are so kind and knowledgeable, and my favorite part was seeing real results in my clients’ skin! – Sam H.

Cosmetology Grad
Grad Date: 07/03/2025

I enjoyed every part of my program. Whenever I wanted to learn more, the instructors took extra time with me outside of class. I absolutely recommend Nova. – Amber L.

Nail Technology Grad
Grad Date: 02/14/2025

Nova helped me grow my artistic skills and confidence. My peers and instructors were incredibly supportive, and I’m excited to build my career in the industry! – Maya M.

Esthiology Grad
Grad Date: 06/26/2024

The people made this program special. Staff and classmates were so caring and fun, and the hands-on experience prepared me for what’s next. – Hannah H.

Eyelash Technician Grad
Grad Date: 04/01/2025

Smaller class sizes gave me one-on-one time with my instructor, which made a huge difference. I plan to open my own lash studio. – Aliyah D.

Advanced Practice Esthetics Combo Grad
Grad Date: 05/07/2025

I learned so much and built relationships I’ll keep forever. The instructors truly care and helped me grow professionally and personally. – Taylor C.

Cosmetology Grad
Grad Date: 06/24/2025

My experience was everything I hoped it would be. The curriculum and instructors were amazing — I strongly recommend Nova! – Alexis M.

Nail Technology Grad
Grad Date: 06/17/2025

Even though English isn’t my first language, everyone helped me and made me feel included. Nova is welcoming and supportive. – True N.

Esthiology Grad
Grad Date: 06/16/2022

The hands-on training at Nova gave me confidence. I learned what I love and feel prepared to work in a med spa. – Makenzie M.

Cosmetology Grad
Grad Date: 08/26/2025

I loved every minute at Nova. The instructors were incredibly supportive, and I made lifelong friendships. – Emily K.

Coconut Tiger
1 day ago
Top students, top educators and staff. Unbelievably reasonable prices! If you want your daughter or son to become a talented hair, skin, or nail artist, I’d professionally recommend Nova Academy. Their team building educators who celebrate every win, will empower your child to face the world alone with courage and fiscal strength. -Nina Crash-lead singer coconut Tiger
Photo from customer review
Rylan Brown
1 day ago
I had a great experience. The haircut turned out really well, and Ivy did an excellent job. She was friendly, professional, and took the time to make sure everything was exactly how I wanted it. I'm very happy with how it turned out and would definitely recommend her!
N Z
1 day ago
Very friendly environment
Mary Briody
1 day ago
Kayla touched up, foiled and cut my hair. It's always hard to describe what color you want, but she asked questions and nailed it. The cut too is great. I'm getting lots of compliments. It's a full day there, but that's to be expected since the stylists are learning.
Palia Vangh
2 days ago
Faith was amazing! Did a wonderful job with my daughter’s hair.
I had a hair cut and full foil today by Alexa N she did a fabulous job. Love love love my hair!
Gail Korich
3 days ago
I had a hard time explaining what I wanted and omg, if she didn't read my mind! Anastasia, thank you for making my life easier! Gail
Jennifer is absolutely amazing!! Makes enrolling super smooth and is very helpful, I couldn’t recommend a cosmetology school more!
joan wikre
4 days ago
I felt the instructors really care for the students and Sara did a great job, as a beginning student and will go far.
Eva Borneke
5 days ago
Julie did a fantastic job on my toes. I had skin on my pinky toes that had overgrown and she was very gentle and removed most of it. Pleasant conversation throughout the entire appointment. I highly recommend her for a gel pedicure.
Kyla Androli
5 days ago
I went in for a cut because I desperately needed one. I told Kaylee what I was thinking and she absolutely delivered! I don’t get my hair done when I should or as often as I should but knowing Kaylee won’t be there for long makes me want to keep up with it. I will most definitely follow Kaylee as she grows into her new career !
Laura Perez
5 days ago
I’m very disappointed with my experience at Nova Academy. I paid $40 for a pedicure, and the quality of the work was not what I expected at all. It hasn’t even been a week, and the polish has already chipped and fallen off several of my nails. The technician also seemed like she didn’t want to do the service. She did everything with very little enthusiasm and had a negative attitude throughout the appointment, which made the experience even worse. For $40, I expected much better quality and customer service. Unfortunately, I would not recommend this place based on my experience.
Pat Gay
5 days ago
Liky TheBuffBoi
5 days ago
Emma F did such an amazing job! She made me feel relaxed and well taken care of during my pedicure! Absolutely fantastic! ❤️
Karla did an excellent job! She was knowledgeable and quick. Thank you so much!
Barb Banitt
6 days ago
My first time here and Sookie did an excellent job on my mani/pedi!
Cherie Smith
7 days ago
I scheuled a 30 minute facial and the experience was relaxing and rejuvinating.Chloe was well trained, soft spoken, polite and professional. Checking out, the front desk person was able to answer my questions and quickly signed me up for their rewards program. Skin felt clean, moisturized, and very soft all day. Planing on going back for a haircut. Happy to reccomend.
Jess Felten
1 week ago
Pampered with a pedicure by Emma F & a relaxing facial by Reina! Will be back for more services.
Maggie Murray
1 week ago
Hannah was my cosmologist. She did a great job. She was patient with me and helped me with choosing whether or not to go with bangs. I went with bangs and I love my new look! I will be back.
Photo from customer review
Hannah
1 week ago
Emma.F was amazing for my pedicure she made my toes look so tuff…
Elaine Mielke
1 week ago
Good haircut with a great student
Claire Hulson
1 week ago
Kristie Ruth
2 weeks ago
Piper Akbar was sweet & kind. Her color combo was amazing with my silver hair! Highly recommend Piper 🙂
Photo from customer review
Genesis Valdez
2 weeks ago
Montana K. did an outstanding job on my hair! She gave me a partial treatment and style for my curls and listened carefully to what I wanted. The final result was precise, beautiful, and exactly what I requested. She may be starting out in beauty school, but her skill and professionalism are already well beyond that. Highly recommend her service
Lynne Johnson
2 weeks ago
Stacy and Alexa are professional, accomplished and personable. Simply the best and I'm confident will do well after graduating next week!

GET INSPIRED

Curls doing their thing💁🏾‍♀️😍😍
Lived in blonde ! 

#mnstylist #cosmetologystudent #minnesotastylist #pinkcollar #livedinblondes
✨ A New Chapter Begins! 👑

Starting August 2026, you’ll be able to book my cosmetology student services through Nova Academy of Cosmetology! https://novaacademy.edu/rochester/salon-spa-services/

🗓 Monday–Friday
⏰ 8:30 AM–4:30 PM

Important: 💛
My regular Royal African Braiding services (knotless braids, boho braids, goddess braids, crochet styles, protective styles, and specialty braiding) will continue to be booked through Booksy as usual.

This is another exciting step toward becoming a licensed cosmetologist while continuing to provide you with the Royal experience you’ve always loved.

Thank you for supporting my dream. ❤️

📲 Follow my journey: allbyanastasia

#royalafricanbraiding #NovaAcademy #CosmetologyStudent #minnesotahairstylist #minnesotabraider
First lash set and I’m obsessed 😍 #estheticianschool #esthetician #lashextension #lashes #classics nova_academy_woodbury

HAPPENINGS

Classes Start Soon

Next Class Starts In…
2026/08/31 00:15:33

2026 Class Start Dates

Cosmetology, Esthiology,
Advanced Practice Esthetics-Combined, APE (500hr)

  • January 12 (Monday)
  • March 9 (Monday)
  • May 4 (Monday)
  • July 6 (Monday)
  • August 31 (Monday)
  • October 26 (Monday)

Nail & Lash Technology

  • February 2 (Monday)
  • March 30 (Monday)
  • May 26 (Tuesday)
  • July 27 (Monday)
  • September 21 (Monday)
  • November 16 (Monday)

Instructor Training

By appointment. Please contact an Admissions Leader.