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.

0
+
YEARLY GRADUATES
0
+
COMBINED YEARS OF EXPERIENCE TEACHING
0
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.
Screenshot 2023-07-25 at 11.30.28 PM

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.

Black Monochrome Red Sale Video Facebook Post

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.

pexels-obsahovka-obsahovka-4449790-scaled-blackwhite

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.

Janeha Edwards
20 hours ago
Very welcoming, and professional. They also give me good information and I always learn something. All in all a fun and satisfying experience. 🥰🥰🥰
Thomas Racine
3 days ago
E.J. did an excellent job on my facial this afternoon.
Jill Hill
4 days ago
Nova academy is a school of great potential and the service is great. The staff and students are friendly and they know what they are expected to do, they also have good product knowledge.
Mary Koenig
4 days ago
Morgan and the supervisor were amazing. Best school I’ve been to. Very well run!!!
Luz Anzaldo
5 days ago
Pleasant experience. Everyone is very welcoming and friendly.
Diane Kass
6 days ago
I saw Penelope for a lash lift & tint today and she was phenomenal. My lashes look the best they ever have and it was so relaxing I fell asleep. She was so meticulous and a perfectionist so when I first opened my eyes after the treatment there was no remaining glue or stickiness. IYKYK.
Lenore Wruck
6 days ago
Yesterday, with 2 other friends we visited Nova. I had a hair cut. I wish I had gotten the name of the lady that did it; It was above the mirror and stared with an S; II was around 10: 30. I have paid over $100 for hair cuts; This lady did the best I have ever paid for. and at only $20. Whenever our bus heads to Nova I will be on it. A few months ago I had a pedicure which also, a great job. But I don't see my toes every time I look in the mirror
John
6 days ago
Great Service and Great Prices!
Response from the owner:Thank you for recognizing our service and prices. We appreciate your business and invite you back to visit us again.
Judy Hoppe
6 days ago
Did a fantastic job, very pleased with the outcome
Patrick McGowan
7 days ago
Amazing experience once again. Kudos to their instructor leadership. They create an environment of learning. and mentoring to bring up the next generation of professionals. I highly respect the culture that they’ve created and am proud to support
Response from the owner:Thank you for recognizing our instructor leadership and the learning environment we strive to create. We appreciate your support of the culture we’ve built and invite you to return.
Very salon/spa like lobby. Clean and bright. My service was done by Belinda. The service was great and as expected. Belinda was a little shy in the beginning but warmed up and chatted during the appointment. As she gains more confidence Belinda will be great! I will be going back.
Julie Schultz
1 week ago
The student who completed my dermaplaning did a wonderful job!
Response from the owner:Thank you for noting that the student did a wonderful job. We appreciate your kind words and invite you to visit us again.
Jill Larson
1 week ago
Penelope did an AMAZING job on my lash lift and tint! She explained the process as she went along which helped me to understand what was going on. Her professionalism and knowledge of other lash/brow treatments gave me the confidence to come back in the near future to try other services.
Angel M.
1 week ago
This place is amazing! Prices are all well justified and worth it with the amazing instructors guiding students when needed and the overall great atmosphere and environment! Ahtziri was a life changer I went from no haircare or maintanence to a full routine and haircut that gets compliments DAILY! It's made my life really 180 in terms of confidence and she was really friendly and knowledgable giving my clueless self a great direction in style!
Lori DeWitte
1 week ago
I just had my eyebrows and lip line waxed and a facial done by Danyella DeWitte and it was very relaxing. She did a fabulous job and very meticulous! I also had my arm pits waxed as well for the first time 🥴, wasn’t as painful as I thought it would be and she made it feel less painful by just letting you know up front what you could expect. Overall had a great experience. Looking forward to going back to her on other things they have available!! Lori
Anne F
1 week ago
Katelyn did a great job on cutting and styling my hair.
Eleanor Krediet
1 week ago
My Stylist, Josie, did such a good job with my hair. I have extremely curly hair and it is also a bit coarse and to top it all off I got a sensitive scalp but she handled it perfectly and I am happy with how my hair looks. So much more alive
Amazing job Kendra! Listened to what her clients need and nails it.
Photo from customer reviewPhoto from customer reviewPhoto from customer review
Maria Versaguis
2 weeks ago
I saw Cassie H. (Cassandra) today for a 4 inch trim and blowout. She gave the most amazing scalp massage during the shampoo, and was very friendly and helpful with figuring out what I should do with my hair! She made me feel beautiful and confident. I will for sure be back!
Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your experience with Cassandra. We’re glad she gave you a great scalp massage and helped you feel beautiful and confident. We appreciate your kind words and look forward to your next visit.
Linda Arneson
2 weeks ago
Response from the owner:Thank you for the 5-star rating. We appreciate your support and hope to see you again soon.
Susan Vale
2 weeks ago
Louie was awesome!! He was competent, attentive to the instructors and me, professional and kind. He is going to have a great future! I LOVE my hair cut!!
Jess Guida
2 weeks ago
Christina Butler
2 weeks ago
Kaylee was amazing! My facial and dermaplaning were amazing! All staff were also super nice! And the price was absolutely wonderful!! Same day appointment as well!

GET INSPIRED

Soft, sweet, and slayed. 🤍🎀 A classic French moment with a little extra love. 💅🏾✨

Would you wear this set? Drop a 🤍 if it’s a YES — and save this for your next nail inspo!

#SlayjahNails #FrenchTipNails #NailInspo #StPaulNailTech #MinnesotaNails
Caramel honey blonde>> 🍯✨

Gave miss baddie Latina a fresh layered cut, lifted with Moroccanoil Professional 9 Volume Lightener, and toned to perfection using Moroccanoil Color calypso! Obsessed with the dimension 

 #mnstylist #minnesotastylist #blowouts #latinabaddie #woodburymn
👑 WE DON’T JUST BRAID — WE PAY CLOSE ATTENTION TO THE HAIR UNDERNEATH THE BRAIDS.

My cosmetology training with nova_academy_rochester has transformed how I approach protective styling.

Before we start, we evaluate your hair texture, density, scalp condition, areas that may need extra care, and the amount of tension your hair can comfortably handle.

Why? Because not every head of hair should be braided the same way.

What works wonderfully for thick, dense hair might not be suitable for someone with finer hair, delicate areas, thinning, breakage, or a sensitive scalp.

This means your braid size, sectioning, amount of extension hair, tension, and even the style itself may need to be customised specifically for you.

✨ We assess before we braid.
✨ We consider texture and density.
✨ We prioritise appropriate tension.
✨ We adapt the style to suit your natural hair condition.
✨ When something seems to require medical attention, we urge you to consult the relevant healthcare professional rather than just hiding it with a hairstyle.

At Royal African Braiding, stunning braids should never compromise your natural hair. We style with protection, health, and your personal needs in mind. 👑

#allbyanastasia #royalafricanbraiding #protectivestyles #cosmetologystudent #rochestermn
From late nights, long days, practicals, exams, and so many moments of “I don’t know if I can do this” … to I DID IT. 🎓✨

I passed all my exams, graduated from cosmetology school, and I’m officially a LICENSED COSMETOLOGIST! 💇🏽‍♀️💄✂️

This journey challenged me, pushed me, and reminded me just how capable I am. I’m so proud of the person I became along the way and so excited for everything that’s ahead. 🤍

Here’s to the beginning of my career, creating beauty, making people feel confident, and turning my passion into my purpose. ✨

Licensed. Graduated. Blessed. And just getting started🥂🎓💋

nova_academy_woodbury 

#cosmetologystudent #graduation #DayInMyLife #hairtok #cosmetologyschool
Your dream career has a name… and it just might be Nova

Upcoming Start Dates

Cosmetology, Esthetics & Advanced Esthetics
🗓️August 31
🗓️October 26

Nail Technology
🗓️September 21
🗓️November 16

Learn more about attending Nova Academy of Cosmetology through the link in our bio.

#beautyschool #cosmetologyschool #estheticsschool #nailtechschool #minnesotabeautyschool
back to school 
.
.
.
nova_academy_mankato #nailtech #nailart #naturalnails #cosmetologystudent #cosmetologyschool

HAPPENINGS

Classes Start Soon

Next Class Starts In…
2026/09/21 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.