Top 10 Salon Manager Certifications

Certifications can be invaluable for salon managers looking to enter or advance in the job market. They demonstrate a level of knowledge and experience that can help distinguish candidates from other applicants. Certifications also show potential employers that the candidate is committed to staying up-to-date on industry trends and standards. Having certifications related to salon management, such as a professional certification in cosmetology or a Master’s degree in business administration, can give candidates an edge when applying for jobs. Additionally, certifications may be required by certain employers or state laws, so having them can open doors to new opportunities.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Salon Managers and explains how they can help to advance a salon manager's career.

What are Salon Manager Certifications?

Salon manager certification is a type of professional development and training program designed to help individuals learn the essential skills needed to effectively manage a salon or spa. It provides a comprehensive overview of the best practices for running a successful salon business, from customer service and marketing to financial management and personnel management. The certification program can be completed in just one or two days and provides participants with an understanding of the industry, as well as practical knowledge that can be applied on the job.

Having a salon manager certification can benefit both employers and employees alike. For employers, it demonstrates that they have taken the time to invest in their employee's professional development and shows potential customers that their staff are knowledgeable professionals who know what they are doing. For employees, having this certification gives them confidence when running a salon business and can help them advance in their careers. Plus, since many salons require their managers to have some form of formal training or education, having this certification may give them an edge over other applicants when applying for jobs.

Pro Tip: When considering a salon manager certification, make sure to research the program thoroughly. Look for programs that provide comprehensive training in topics such as business management, customer service, inventory control, and marketing. Additionally, seek out certifications from reputable organizations to ensure that you are getting the most up-to-date information and skills.

Related: What does a Salon Manager do?

Top 10 Salon Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Salon Managers today.

1. Certified Salon Manager (CSM)

Certified Salon Manager (CSM) is a professional certification program designed to help salon owners and managers develop their business skills and become more successful. The CSM program is offered by the Professional Beauty Association (PBA), which is the largest organization of beauty professionals in the United States.

The CSM program consists of three courses, each of which can be completed online in about 8-10 hours. The courses cover topics such as customer service, marketing, financial management, human resources, and salon operations. Upon completion of all three courses, participants are eligible to take the CSM exam.

To get certified as a CSM, you must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher. The cost for the entire program is $499 USD. This includes access to all three courses and the exam fee. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official Certified Salon Manager certificate from PBA.

2. National Cosmetology Association Certified Salon Manager (NCACSM)

The National Cosmetology Association Certified Salon Manager (NCACSM) is a professional certification program that recognizes salon managers who have achieved a high level of expertise in the management of salons. The program is designed to help salon owners and managers become more successful by providing them with the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary to manage their businesses effectively.

To obtain the NCACSM certification, an individual must complete a comprehensive training program offered by the National Cosmetology Association. This program consists of online courses, webinars, and in-person seminars. The coursework covers topics such as marketing and customer service, financial management, human resource management, business law, and salon operations. Upon completion of the coursework, individuals must pass an exam to receive their certification.

The cost for the NCACSM certification varies depending on the type of training program chosen. Online courses typically range from $500-$1000 while in-person seminars can cost up to $2500. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the exam such as registration fees or travel expenses if attending an in-person seminar.

Overall, obtaining the NCACSM certification takes approximately 8-12 weeks depending on which type of training program is chosen and how quickly an individual completes it.

3. Professional Beauty Association Certified Salon Manager (PBACSM)

The Professional Beauty Association Certified Salon Manager (PBACSM) is a certification program for salon owners, managers, and other professionals in the beauty industry. The program is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to successfully manage a salon business. It covers topics such as marketing, customer service, financial management, human resources, and more.

The certification process typically takes about six months to complete. To get certified, applicants must first submit an application and fee. Then they must complete a series of online courses covering the material in the PBACSM curriculum. Upon completion of the courses, applicants must take and pass an exam to receive their certification.

The cost of the PBACSM certification varies depending on how many courses are taken and how long it takes to complete them. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$1,000 USD for the entire certification process.

4. American Association of Cosmetology Schools Certified Salon Manager (AACSCSM)

The American Association of Cosmetology Schools Certified Salon Manager (AACSCSM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize cosmetology professionals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to successfully manage a salon. The AACSCSM certification is awarded by the American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS), which is an organization that promotes excellence in cosmetology education and provides resources for students and practitioners in the industry.

To obtain the AACSCSM certification, applicants must complete a comprehensive application process that includes passing a written exam as well as completing an online course. The exam covers topics such as salon management, marketing, customer service, business operations, and financial management. In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also demonstrate their understanding of salon safety protocols and ethics.

The cost of obtaining AACSCSM certification varies depending on the applicant’s individual circumstances. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $300-$1000 for all required materials and fees associated with obtaining the certification. Additionally, most states require applicants to pay an annual renewal fee after they have obtained their certification.

In terms of how long it takes to get certified, this depends on how quickly you are able to complete all requirements for obtaining your AACSCSM certification. Generally speaking, it should take no more than 6-8 weeks from start to finish if you are able to dedicate yourself fully to completing all required tasks in a timely manner.

5. International Nail Technicians Association Certified Salon Manager (INTACSM)

The International Nail Technicians Association Certified Salon Manager (INTACSM) is a professional certification program for salon managers. The program aims to equip salon managers with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage a successful salon.

The INTACSM certification program consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person exam. The online course covers topics such as customer service, marketing, financial management, human resources, and business ethics. The in-person exam tests the candidate's knowledge of these topics as well as their ability to apply them in a salon setting.

The INTACSM certification can be obtained by completing the online course and passing the in-person exam. It typically takes about 3 months to complete the program, but this may vary depending on individual circumstances.

The cost of the INTACSM certification varies depending on your location and whether or not you are a member of the International Nail Technicians Association (INTA). For non-members, the cost is usually around $200 USD. For INTA members, it is usually discounted to around $150 USD.

6. American Board of Certified Haircolorists Certified Salon Manager (ABCHCM)

The American Board of Certified Haircolorists Certified Salon Manager (ABCHCM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the expertise and knowledge of salon managers in the hair coloring industry. This certification is offered by the American Board of Certified Haircolorists (ABCH), an organization dedicated to promoting excellence in hair coloring and salon management.

To become certified, applicants must first complete an online application and submit it to ABCH for review. Once approved, applicants must then complete a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as color theory, product knowledge, customer service, safety protocols, and business operations. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their ABCHCM designation.

The cost for the ABCHCM certification program is $395 USD. The program typically takes between 8-10 weeks to complete depending on how quickly you are able to study and take the exam.

7. International Dermal Institute Certified Salon Manager (IDICSM)

The International Dermal Institute Certified Salon Manager (IDICSM) is an advanced certification program designed to provide salon and spa managers with the knowledge and skills needed to successfully manage a business. The program focuses on the principles of business management, customer service, marketing, and professional development.

The IDICSM certification requires completion of a series of courses that cover topics such as financial management, human resources, operations, sales and marketing. The program also includes hands-on training in areas such as product knowledge, client services and salon leadership. Upon completion of the program, participants receive an official IDICSM certificate from the International Dermal Institute.

The IDICSM certification takes approximately six months to complete. Participants must attend all classroom sessions and pass an exam at the end of each course in order to receive their certification.

In order to obtain the IDICSM certification, applicants must first complete a formal application process which includes submitting proof of education or experience in business management or related fields. Applicants must also submit three letters of recommendation from industry professionals who can attest to their qualifications for this program.

The cost for obtaining the IDICSM certification varies depending on individual circumstances but typically ranges between $2,000 - $3,000 USD. This cost covers tuition fees for all courses required for completion of the program as well as any additional materials needed for successful completion of the program.

8. National Esthetician & Skin Care Association Certified Salon Manager (NESCACSM)

The National Esthetician & Skin Care Association Certified Salon Manager (NESCACSM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of salon professionals. The NESCACSM certification is a comprehensive program that covers all aspects of salon management, including customer service, financial management, marketing, human resources, and legal compliance.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the NESCACSM program. To get certified, you must first complete an application and pay the required fees. After your application is approved, you will be required to take an online assessment that tests your knowledge in the areas of salon management. Once you pass this assessment, you will be awarded your certification.

The cost of the NESCACSM certification varies depending on the level of certification desired. The basic level costs $99 USD while the advanced level costs $299 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees for retaking assessments or other services related to obtaining your certification.

Overall, obtaining a NESCACSM certification can help demonstrate your commitment to excellence in salon management and provide recognition for your hard work as a professional in this field.

9. Society of Cosmetic Chemists Certified Salon Manager (SCCCSM)

The Society of Cosmetic Chemists Certified Salon Manager (SCCCSM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and promote excellence in the management and operation of salons. The program was developed by the Society of Cosmetic Chemists (SCC), an international organization dedicated to advancing the science, technology, and art of cosmetic chemistry.

The SCCCSM certification is awarded to individuals who demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of salon management principles, practices, and techniques. To become certified, candidates must successfully complete a two-part examination that covers topics such as salon operations, customer service, financial management, marketing and promotion, human resources management, risk management, salon safety protocols, and more.

The exam is offered twice per year: once in the spring and once in the fall. Candidates must register for the exam at least six weeks prior to the exam date. The cost for taking the exam is $150 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees.

To maintain their certification status, certified salon managers must recertify every three years by completing 15 continuing education credits approved by SCCCSM.

10. International Spa Association Certified Salon Manager (ISACSM).

The International Spa Association Certified Salon Manager (ISACSM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of salon managers. The ISACSM certification is awarded to individuals who demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the spa industry, including business operations, customer service, marketing, and financial management.

To obtain the ISACSM certification, applicants must complete an online course and pass an exam. The course covers topics such as spa operations, customer service, marketing and financial management. It takes approximately 10 hours to complete the online course and exam.

The cost for the ISACSM certification is $299 USD. This fee includes access to the online course materials and the exam fee.

Once a candidate has successfully completed their coursework and passed their exam, they will receive their official ISACSM certification from the International Spa Association. This certification is valid for three years before it must be renewed by completing additional continuing education courses or retaking the original exam.

Do You Really Need a Salon Manager Certificate?

The short answer to this question is that it depends. A salon manager certificate can be a great way to demonstrate knowledge of the industry and help you stand out from other applicants. It can also give you the confidence to apply for higher-level positions in the salon business. However, if you have prior experience in the field or are already working in a salon, then a certificate may not be necessary.

There are several advantages to having a certificate in salon management. For one thing, it shows potential employers that you have taken the time to learn about the business and understand what it takes to run a successful salon. Having a certificate also shows that you possess certain skills that may give you an edge over other candidates who do not have one. Additionally, some salons offer special discounts or promotions for employees who hold this type of certification.

On the other hand, if you already have experience in running a salon or managing people, then obtaining a certificate may not be necessary. It is possible to gain valuable knowledge about the industry by talking with seasoned professionals and researching online resources such as trade journals and websites dedicated to beauty and spa businesses. With enough dedication and hard work, any employee can become successful without holding any formal credentials.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a salon manager certificate will depend on your individual circumstances and goals within the industry. If you feel that having one would benefit your career path, then it may be worth pursuing. However, if you are already experienced in running a salon or managing people then there is no need to obtain one at this time.

Related: Salon Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Salon Manager Certifications

1. What is a salon manager certification?

Answer: A salon manager certification is a credential that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and expertise in managing a salon operation. This certification typically involves completing a course or program that covers topics such as customer service, business management, and marketing.

2. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to get certified depends on the type of program you choose and the number of hours you devote to studying each week. Generally speaking, most programs can be completed in six months or less.

3. What are the benefits of becoming certified?

Answer: Becoming certified provides evidence of your professional knowledge and skills in managing a salon business. It also demonstrates your commitment to the industry and allows you to stand out among other professionals when looking for employment opportunities. Additionally, some states may require salon managers to have specific certifications in order to legally operate a business.

4. How much does it cost to become certified?

Answer: The cost of certification varies depending on the type of program chosen and any additional materials required for completion (e.g., textbooks). Generally speaking, most programs range from $100-$500 USD per course or program module taken.

5. Is there an exam associated with certification?

Answer: Yes, most programs require individuals to pass an exam in order to receive their certification credentials. Exams typically cover topics related to customer service, business management, marketing, and more specific skills related to running a successful salon business operation.