- MANKATO-

Beautiful Careers Start Here

Nova Academy of Cosmetology - Mankato

Welcome to Nova Academy of Cosmetology in Mankato, a premiere destination attracting aspiring beauty students from all over southwestern Minnesota, including Mankato, New Ulm, St. Peter, Lakeville, Marshall, and even Sioux Falls, for those pursuing their passion from out-of-state.

Nova Academy of Cosmetology – Mankato boasts a state-of-the-art facility, providing an optimal learning environment. Inside, a dedicated team of experienced educators is committed to delivering a high-quality educational experience.

For those eager to work in the beauty industry, Nova Academy of Cosmetology serves as an excellent starting point. Explore our comprehensive programs to discover the array of opportunities available to you. Take the crucial first step and connect with our admissions team today to secure your spot in our vibrant community of beauty enthusiasts.

Programs Offered

A comprehensive program that covers various beauty treatments, including hairstyling, makeup application, and skincare.

Focuses specifically on skincare and related treatments, teaching techniques like facials, waxing, and exfoliation.

Training in nail care, manicures, pedicures, and nail artistry.

A higher level of skincare training, encompassing advanced techniques and treatments.

An integrated program merging advanced skincare practices with a comprehensive esthiology curriculum.

Ongoing learning for beauty professionals to update skills and stay current with industry trends.

Prepares individuals to become educators in the beauty industry, teaching future professionals.

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 best education and preparation 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, makeup, skincare, and nail artistry.
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BECOME A BEAUTY PROFESSIONAL

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 aspiring students, thanks to the availability of federal financial aid and self-loans, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder the pursuit of a fulfilling career in the beauty industry.

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.

Salon, Spa & Advanced Skin Services

We offer a wide range of services to cater to your hair, skin, and nail needs. We take pride in offering advanced skin treatments that are normally only found at med-spas. What sets us apart is not only the exceptional quality and variety of our services, but also our affordability.

Rest assured, our dedicated team of future professionals, who perform the services are backed by skilled instructors, ensuring your service is performed to your satisfaction. We use only professional-grade products, to ensure the highest quality outcomes. While we excel in individual appointments, we also specialize in catering to  special occasions like weddings, proms, and birthdays.

GET INSPIRED

A beautiful dimensional blonde for a lovely lady. She was absolutely glowing by the end. I love seeing that smile. 

#blondegirl #blondeinspo #haircolorideas #mankatomnhairstylist #mankatomn
The future of beauty is looking bright! ✨ We had the best time visiting the amazing students at Nova Academy today to share a peek into what life is like at Heat Salon!
Love that I remembered to post a photo and on a Sunday ❣️☀️
A little about me
So excited to keep learning, growing, and doing what I love!

#novaacedemyofcosmetology #cosmetology #hair #nails #waxing

Monday: 8:30am – 4:30pm

Tuesday: 8:30am – 4:30pm

Wednesday: 8:30am – 7:30pm

Thursday: 8:30am – 4:30pm

Friday: 8:30am – 4:30pm

Saturday: 8:30am – 4:30pm (1st & 3rd Saturdays), Closed on other Saturdays

Sunday: Closed

Appointments: (507) 345-4033

Admissions: (651) 565-6589

Address: 500 Raintree Rd, Mankato, MN 56001

Great job, Kaylee!
Faith T did an amazing job on my haircut and facial. She was professional, kind and detail focused. Highly recommend booking with her!
Sabrin Hashi
1 week ago
I got my toes done with a spa pedicure, I love my results the petty was relaxing. I love Miani she was great to talk to and she did amazing on my toes.
April Diethelm
1 week ago
Emma did a great job on my nails & look forward to all the great opportunities she will have in the future
Rachel Chang
1 week ago
I had a great and relaxing time. My hair stylist Kayla Tello was gentle with my hair. I love how it turned out. Would definitely come back.
Colt Tork
2 weeks ago
Faith did a fantastic job on my hair and beard/face!
Crystal Vollmer
2 weeks ago
Gracie was such a great stylist! She picked up my appointment after I waited for 20 minutes for someone who called in sick. She was professional and fun to talk with! I booked her 3 more time! This is a before pic! lol
Photo from customer review
Thank you Emily S for the haircut!!
Ryan Pieh
2 weeks ago
Great student to cut my hair
Kathy Kathy
2 weeks ago
Overall my experience was great and the outcome I received with my hair was fantastic! I was offended when I asked my stylist if I could find my own “hair part” as she was beginning to comb thru it after shampooing but before cutting! The stylist rolled her eyes handed me the comb and I made my part. She then said that is exactly where I parted it. There was dead silence between us the rest of the appointment-awkward and kind of uncomfortable! Asking to part my own hair is a simple request I will continue to make each time I book an appointment. I will still continue to use Nova for my future hair appointments-just hoping for a more pleasant experience next time! Thanks
Rebecca Rose
2 weeks ago
Beth was so competent and pleasant. I always have.a great experience here.
Sawyer Collins
2 weeks ago
Linda JD
3 weeks ago
Great oversight and instruction to student on how to approach haircut. Also review at end.
Ben Guida
3 weeks ago
Sophia M did a great job on my haircut
Vannedi
3 weeks ago
Customer service was great, Claudia did an amazing job doing my facial i felt very relaxed after our time was up. The waxing was by far my favorite part
Mercedes Alger
3 weeks ago
Kylie T gave me the most relaxing facial and underarm and eyebrow wax. She did so amazing and was very professional about all of it. My skin feels so refreshed and I feel so relaxed. My brows and underarms are so clean. Will most definitely be booking all my services with her in the future!
Lori DeWitte
4 weeks ago
I had a great experience at Nova with Danyella DeWitte. She did a fantastic job with highlighting my long hair!! Have gotten many compliments on it 😁 Very pleased Lori
Cassandra Farnum
4 weeks ago
Alaina Keizer
1 month ago
Wonderful service, very friendly and did an awesome job
Kimberly Hart
1 month ago
Kendall D. gave me an AMAZING haircut today. She is extremely talented at what she does, and also very knowledgable—I will absolutely be back to see her! Thanks, Kendall!
Kaitlyn Haas
1 month ago
Brittany was great! Super nice and she did a great job!
Sheila Stevensen
1 month ago
Pacey did a good job on my spa pedicure, but I had asked for her to put a design on my big toe and she struggled with that. She had to try 3 different times, and finally after seeing her struggle, I said don't worry about it. It's ok. I realize she is learning and nail art may not be her area of focus. It is ok. I also expected her to massage my calves and feet a little more than she did and she did not even attempt to work on any calluses on my feet. She said my feet were pretty smooth already and she didn't volunteer that information until I mentioned it. I still gave her a tip, but if I was receiving these services at a professional salon, I may not have done so. I wish Pacey the best as she continues her education. She is a very nice lady, caring and thoughtful. Sheila Stevensen
Vince VonBank
1 month ago
I went in and got a haircut from Gracie and she did a fantastic job. She matched the example picture perfectly and was super helpful and stopped to make sure I was liking what she was doing with my hair. It was an overall great experience and I will be going back to her more in the future.
Jonathan Hanson
1 month ago
Jacqueline Avila
1 month ago

Classes Start Soon

Next Class Starts In…
2026/10/26 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.