Overview
The Hairstyling program provides comprehensive training in cutting, styling, colouring, chemical texture services, extensions, and facial grooming. Students gain hands-on experience in a full-service salon environment, preparing them for diverse career opportunities in the hairstyling industry.
- Industry-driven curriculum: Aligned with Apprenticeship Manitoba standards and current salon practices
- Hands-on Learning: Around 70% practical training, with students spending most of their time with tools, clients and real services in the Salon
- Career Focused: Includes salon operations, retail and employability skills to help students get hired - or open their own salon
Admission Requirements
Your Academic History
If your academic history includes any of the following, please visit
My Education for important information: post-secondary studies at an institution other than Red River College Polytechnic; Modified (M), English as an Additional Language (E), or GED high school courses; or home schooling; international secondary (high school) studies.
Click Here for the Admissions Course Equivalence page. This page provides details on the high school courses and credentials needed for admission for applicants from outside of Manitoba. If you have High School education in Canada, use this guide to check your qualifications.
Please check the
Program Overview page, to see if this program is for Manitoba residents only.
DOCUMENT SUBMISSION
Upload Through Your Future Student Account
- Scan your document(s) and save the file. Ensure you keep your original documents as the College may request to see them at any time.
- Go to apply.rrc.ca and log in.
- Click on your application, then Supplemental Items & Documents.
If you do not have a Future Student Account or require assistance, please contact our Student Service Centre at 204-632-2327.
Internationally Educated Applicants - visit www.rrc.ca/credentials for credential assessment information.
Submission of required documentation indicating proof of completion of admission requirements is due within 15 days of applying unless otherwise noted in the program's admission requirements.
However, if you apply within 6 weeks of the program start date, admission requirements are due within 5 days of applying.
Regular Admission Requirements
- Grade 12
- Submit proof of graduation from or enrolment in Grade 12, including one credit in each of the following:
- Grade 12 English (40S)
- Grade 12 Math (40S)
- If you provide proof of enrolment at time of application, your official final grades indicating successful completion must be submitted by July 15 for fall enrolment or by the deadline specified in your admission letter.
- If you are required to complete an English language assessment, do not submit your transcripts until requested to do so. See English Language Requirements (ELRs) for more information.
and
- English Language Requirements (ELRs)
- Answer this question to determine if you meet this program’s ELRs:
Have I successfully completed 3 years of full-time high school (secondary) education in Canada, the United States, or an ELR exempt country where English was the language of instruction? - If YES, you meet English language requirements. Apply and then submit your transcripts* for review
or - If NO, submit proof of meeting an ELRs option. If you choose the English language assessment option, review this program's approved assessments and required levels.
or - If you completed all of your education in Canada, the United States, or an ELR exempt country in English but you did not graduate high school, submit your transcripts* for review.
- * If your transcripts are from the USA or an ELR exempt country, we will assess an International Credentials Assessment Fee to be paid before your transcripts will be reviewed.
Mature Student Admission Requirements
If you are 19 years of age or older and have been out of high school for a minimum of one year at time of application, and you do not meet the regular admission requirements, you may apply under the Mature Student admission requirements.
- Academic Requirement
- High school graduation is not required, but you must have successfully completed or be enrolled in one credit in each of the following:
- Grade 11 English (30S)
- Grade 11 Math 30S in Applied or Pre Calculus
- If you provide proof of enrolment at time of application, your official final grades indicating successful completion must be submitted by July 15 for fall enrolment or by the deadline specified in your admission letter.
- If you are required to complete an English language assessment, do not submit your transcripts until requested to do so. See English Language Requirements for more information.
and
- Meet Regular Admission Requirement 2
English Language Assessments
The College reserves the right to modify this information without notice or prejudice.
ASSESSMENT RESULTS MUST BE DATED NO MORE THAN TWO YEARS PRIOR TO YOUR APPLICATION DATE!
Approved English Language Assessments
| English Language Assessment |
Minimum Scores for Electronics Technician, Hairstyling, Industrial Mechanic/Millwright, Network & Systems Administration |
Minimum Scores for Medical Assistant, Rehabilitation Assistant |
Minimum Scores for Health Care Aide /Personal Support Worker, Medical Assistant Patient Care |
| CAEL Online or In-Person |
Overall band score of 60 |
Overall band score of 70 |
N/A |
| Cambridge C1 Advanced |
Scale score 180 / Grade C |
Scale score 185 / Grade C |
N/A |
| IELTS Academic Level |
Overall 6.0 and No band below 5.5 |
Overall 6.5 and No band below 5.5 |
Overall score of 6.5, with no less than 6.0 in each component |
| Duolingo Language Test |
Overal score of 110 |
Overall score of 120 |
N/A |
| PTE |
54 |
58 |
N/A |
| TOEFL iBT/iBT Home Edition |
For tests taken before January 20, 2026 : 78 (no less than 17 per component)
For tests taken on January 21, 2026 onwards: 4.0 overall (no less than 3.5 per component) |
For tests taken before January 20, 2026: 86 (no less than 20 per component)
For tests taken on January 21, 2026 onwards: 4.5 overall (no less than 4.0 per component) |
N/A |
Locations, Dates and Fees
Next Estimated Term 1 Start Date (subject to change)
| Location |
Start Date |
Apply Link |
| South Winnipeg Campus |
Jan 04, 2027 |
Apply Now |
Costs (estimates only; subject to change)
Students may apply for financial assistance through the Manitoba Student Aid program.
For general information on applying please call 204-945-6321 or 1-800-204-1685,
or visit their website at www.manitobastudentaid.ca,
which also includes an online application. For detailed information, please visit
one of the RRC Polytech Student Service Centres
or call 204-632-2327. Applicants requiring financial assistance should complete their student loan
applications well in advance of the class start date.
Courses and Descriptions
(Click the course name to view the description of the course)
In addition to Transfer of Credit from a recognized post secondary institution,
other RPL processes are available for
RPL courses.
Click here for more information.
For courses with no
RPL, please check
www.rrc.ca/rpl for additional contact information.
RRCM-1044Introduction to Hairstyling
More InformationThis course introduces students to fundamental hairstyling skills, industry operations, and salon safety. Topics include sanitation practices, essential tools and equipment, and an overview of the hairstyling industry. Students develop foundational techniques such as braiding, roller setting and thermal styling.
RRCM-1045Basic Hairstyling
More InformationThis course explores hair and scalp properties, wet hairstyling techniques, and treatments. Students practice formal up-dos, shampoos, conditioners, rinses, and scalp analysis. This course also introduces Afro-textured hair and other natural hair types.
Prerequisites:
RRCM-1046Basic Haircutting and Thermal Styling
More InformationThis course covers essential tools,techniques, and anatomical knowledge for haircutting and thermal styling. Students develop precision cutting skills and learn how to use heat-styling tools safely and effectively.
Prerequisites:
RRCM-1047Basic Salon Services
More InformationThis course introduces students to salon services such as manicures, facials, makeup, and hair removal, with an introduction to perm wrapping and hair colouring while beginning to interact with clients, in preparation for subsequent courses. Students learn all of Unit A6: New Trends, and all of Unit E2: Thermal Styling in this course.
Prerequisites:
RRCM-1048Intermediate Haircutting and Barbering
More InformationThis course expands on haircutting techniques with a focus on barbering. Students develop razor, clipper, and texturizing skills while refining their cutting and finishing techniques.
Prerequisites:
RRCM-1049Hair Colouring
More InformationThis course focuses on colour theory and the development of hair colouring techniques. Students explore the different classifications of hair colour learn formulation basics, and practice colour correction and blending.
Prerequisites:
RRCM-1050Intermediate Hairstyling and Artificial Hair
More InformationThis course focuses on wigs, hair extensions, and hair enhancements, with the continued development of wet and thermal hair styling techniques. Students will also develop expertise in styling Afro-textured hair and mastering advanced braiding techniques.
Prerequisites:
RRCM-1051Salon Operations and Client Services
More InformationThis course focuses on the business side of hairstyling, covering salon management, retail operations, and employment preparation. Students learn customer service, marketing and financial skills relevant to managing or owing a salon.
RRCM-1052Chemical Texture Services
More InformationThis course teaches the science and practical applications of permanent waving and chemical texture services. Students practice wrapping techniques and design methods for creating various curl patterns.
Prerequisites:
RRCM-1053Advanced Hair Colouring
More InformationThis course builds on previous training with advanced colouring techniques. Students refine their formulation skills and apply various colour services while mastering complex hairstyling techniques.
Prerequisites:
RRCM-1054Advanced Haircutting and Chemical Texture
More InformationThis course provides advanced training in haircutting and chemical texture services. Students enhance their precision cutting techniques while perfecting permanent waving and starightening applications.
Prerequisites:
RRCM-1055Exam Preparation
More InformationThis course prepares students for the Manitoba Hairstylist Practical Examination. Students refine their skills and timing in various areas of hairstyling, including barbering, haircutting, thermal styling, roller setting, color and foil application, and perm winding to ensure they meet industry certification standards.
Prerequisites:
Recognition of Prior Learning
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process which documents and compares an individual's prior learning gained from prior education, work and life experiences and personal study to the learning outcomes in College courses/programs. For more information, please visit www.rrc.ca/rpl.
Graduation Requirements
To graduate from the Hairstyling Program, a student must receive a minimum grade of C (60%) in all 12 courses.
Academic Advising Service
Our academic advising service can provide information about our full-time programs, explain program admission requirements, and help you select the right program to meet your career and academic goals. We can also connect you with helpful people, resources, and supports.
