Alberta Barber Academy’s Foundations program prepares you to cut, shape and stand out. You’ll move from core concepts to advanced fades, straight razor shaves and real-world practice in a space built for serious training. No fluff, no filler. Just barbering skills taught with passion.

About our Foundations program
Our 14-week Foundations program starts with the basics of how barbering works, from core techniques to health, safety and shop standards. You’ll put that knowledge into practice on mannequins first, so you can focus on your technique and build confidence before you start working with clients in our on-site studio.

From there, you’ll train in both basic and advanced fade and shave techniques, so you can handle everything from clean lines to straight razor work. You’ll participate in two hands-on practicums — one four-week block and one six-week block — where you’ll build experience with paying clients and feel what working in a shop is actually like.

This is an opportunity to interact with clients, build your communication skills and learn to deliver the kind of service that helps you build — and keep — a loyal client base.

Our Foundations program also includes preparation for your Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) certification exams, with built-in review and mock exams. You’ll also get support with your Alberta apprenticeship application, so you’re not navigating the next step toward your barbering career on your own.

Alberta Barber Academy treats barbering like the craft it is.
As one of Canada’s largest barber training schools, with over 20,000 square feet of dedicated training space in downtown Edmonton, we’ve built an environment where you can take your craft seriously.

Our team of hands-on instructors aren’t tucked away in classrooms; they’re actively invested in your success. They give constructive feedback, watch your technique in our on-site studio and share real insight into the barbering industry.

Our curriculum and practicums focus on client-ready training, preparing you to provide a relaxing, professional service that keeps people coming back to your chair and recommending you to others.

We offer day, evening and weekend options so you can complete your Level 2 certificate with minimal disruption to your daily routine.

You’ll train in an inclusive environment with people who are just as driven as you are — no egos, just a shared goal of leveling up.