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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YEARLY GRADUATES
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COMBINED YEARS OF EXPERIENCE TEACHING
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YEARS IN OPERATION

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.

LeeAnne
10 hours ago
Had a great service with Abbi Hotlen! This is the second time she has done my nails and they hold up. Great service. Will be returning.
Lynn Knauff
1 day ago
Greta was great at my facial . Really relaxing, . My haircut was perfect. She listened and gave me some different options when I asked her opinion. She was professional and kind. I would have given her 10 stars!
Response from the owner:Thank you for the kind words about Greta. We're glad you had a relaxing experience. We appreciate your review and hope to see you again.
Joyce Scalze
2 days ago
I've never had a facial before so I didn't know what to expect. Annabelle was the student who did my facial. She explained what she was doing, her touch was gentle and I relaxed right away. It was a wonderful experience.
Donna Brown
2 days ago
I had the best experience today with Adisyn. I felt so relaxed during my facial I almost fell asleep. My face has been extremely dry. It felt so soft and amazing afterwards. I felt so pampered. Thank you!
I had Naomi as my esthetician today and she EXCEEDED all of my expectations! She was so calming, attentive, and well-trained! I felt like I was floating on a cloud during my facial today, and I left with my skin feeling so glowy and better than it ever had before!! I also learned so much about the facial process as she was fantastic at explaining everything. I could not recommend her enough!
Mark Gierczak
3 days ago
They have the best prices in Rochester for haircuts
East Metro
4 days ago
Susan Boeck
5 days ago
Steph Geisler
5 days ago
Karla did an excellent job with asking what style I wanted, great shampoo, cutting and styling. She really took her time, asking me each time to look at the back and see if I wanted more cut off. She had a lot of confidence, shared she’d graduate in Dec( I told her I wanted to come back for another cut before she graduated), I made The appointment before I left. I’m a veteran, so my haircut was free! She also told me about the products she used, I purchased hydrating cream. It was nice to have a $10 coupon too!!
Janet Fogg
5 days ago
Very professional and I love my eyelashes
Chloe Sims
5 days ago
I saw Maddie H. for a signature 60 minute facial. She did an amazing job and my skin looks and feels great!
Karyn Sims
5 days ago
Maddie H. did a great job. I had a facial and my skin feels amazing. Thanks Maddie!
Grace Sieber
5 days ago
Skyler S was AMAZING and I enjoyed every minute of the 60 minute facial! I have a nut allergy and she was very careful with the ingredients of the products she used. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND HER
Diane Stich
5 days ago
Great experience with Lily. She did everything I asked and I'm very happy with the results. I will be returning to try different services with Lily.
Kristen Gallo
5 days ago
Olivia did a great job on my waxing and facial! She was so sweet and professional. I will be returning!!
Adalia Matzner
6 days ago
Such an amazing environment! Cleanly and well-kept! Sophia, my honor student stylist, did a FANTASTIC job with my hair doing a mini foil, haircut, and style. Would recommend!
Photo from customer review
Olivia Domek
6 days ago
Hair is now gray and orange. Very spotty and they tried to cover it up snd hid it from me
LushLatina
6 days ago
I was told that the instructors were rude and told the student that they have to OBEY like if they were dogs, they don’t even have a quiet space to actually study because they’re “library” is so loud.
Eric Norris
1 week ago
Ava Ryan did an amazing job on my facial it was very relaxing I definitely recommend her if you’re looking for any services 🤩
Jenn Hohn
1 week ago
I just saw MadisonH for a brow wax, lamination and tint, and an eyelash lift and tint as well. The experience was amazing from start to finish. She walked me through each step of the process and made sure I was comfortable. I love the finished look! I have never gotten a tint before on my brow or lash. I will definitely book more services in the future!
Heidi Wolter
1 week ago
Olivia did a fantastic job on my facial and make up. She was professional, thorough, and informative throughout the process.
Lauren Tester
1 week ago
Had my first ever facial today and absolutely loved it! Kylie was friendly and kind upon greeting me, as well as punctual! Getting started, she was polite and gave instructions for next steps (changing & getting situated on the table). During my service, she used a steady and firm but relaxing pressure and checked if it felt okay. She also gave soft cues when to expect the warm towel or a change of product (specifically spraying a mist over my face). The products she used truly feel amazing! I am typically slightly dehydrated and I have some sensitive areas on my face that she worked very well with! I cannot wait for my next service and will definitely book with Kylie T!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I had such a wonderful facial with Kate! She makes you feel so comfortable and relaxed, and the entire experience was amazing. She’s knowledgeable, attentive, and really takes her time to make sure you feel pampered. I left feeling refreshed and my skin felt incredible! Highly recommend treating yourself to a facial with Kate! 💕
Stacey
1 week ago
I had a wonderful first experience! I went in for a haircut, and not only did Lizzy do a fantastic job, but her instructor Nina was super helpful! I'm definitely going back to see Lizzy for my foil and next haircut!
Clifford Haider
1 week ago
great as always with Zoe. Cliff I had Healey October 19 and I have been coming to Nova for 4 years after moving to Rochester and I hope to have Healey in December when I return is she is still a student and not graduated. Cliff

GET INSPIRED

1550 checked off! Today I graduated and I can’t thank the friends, family, and clients who have supported me through this journey enough. Thank you 🩷🩷
Men’s cut on my dad, featuring a #2 guard, finger-length top, and a seamless blend throughout
Hair competency today! A fresh cut for my favorite client🤍
4 inches lighter 💇🏽‍♀️✨

- A line cut 
- soft wispy face framing layers 
- blowout and curl 

#cosmetologystudent #haircut #hairstyle #novaacademymn
Life is short, book a facial with me at Nova Academy!🧡
#facials #booknow #novaacademy

HAPPENINGS

Classes Start Soon

Next Class Starts In…
2026/11/16 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.