Our Admissions team can be reached via text at 402.881.0033 or by phone at 712.328.2613. If you are ready to apply for school, click here.
Cosmetology Program
Iowa: 1800 Hours | Nebraska: 1800 Hours
Mastering the art of Cosmetology! SOHO Hair Academy's Cosmetology course is a comprehensive program consisting of 1800 clock hours, designed to prepare students for obtaining a license in Cosmetology in Nebraska or a license in Cosmetology and Barbering in Iowa. The program focuses on enhancing speed and skill development, with students earning 35 hours per week and graduating in approximately 13 months.Ready to take a bold step towards your future? Come join us at SOHO Hair Academy! We have two convenient locations and offer 1800-hour programs that will get you all set for an exciting career in cosmetology, no matter which state you choose to work in.
Omaha & Council Bluffs Cosmetology School for the Next Generation of Stylists
Schedule a TourVisit SOHO and Enroll
We can’t wait to meet and hear all about why you are choosing a future in cosmetology. Tour our campuses, pick your start date and enroll to make it official!
Let’s GO - Day One
Dive right into the human experience! Day One teaches you the dynamics of human energy, guest consultation and how to create a safe space. Learn the SOHO magical technique for an amazing shampoo and head massage!
Foundations
Your adventure starts in Foundations! You'll spend 6 weeks working with your new besties, practicing all the foundational techniques for your new career. Success begins here!
Senior Practicals
Time flies when you are having fun! You'll have the opportunity to demonstrate your skills in practical assessments that center around mastering timing, precision, and sanitation as your graduation approaches.
State Board Prep
SOHO is here to help you get ready for your State Board tests! We offer a wide range of study materials, practice exams, and expert guidance to make sure you're all set for success.
Graduation
This graduation isn't just a milestone; it's the exciting beginning of your amazing journey in the world of beauty! Imagine the possibilities ahead.
Extraordinary Career
You did it and are making amazing strides towards becoming a leader in the industry! Your innovative skills and unique vision are shaping the future of beauty and inspiring everyone around you. Do Something Beautiful!
Iowa Campus
Nestled in a quiet area of Council Bluffs just east of Downtown Omaha and minutes off of I-80, SOHO Hair Academy is a spacious, eclectic campus providing an outstanding learning environment. Our facility has an expansive clinic area, multiple classrooms, administrative offices, an auditorium, and a student lounge.
Nebraska Campus
Located in a suburban area of Northwest Omaha, just minutes off the Dodge Expressway, SOHO Hair Academy presents a boutique environment designed to inspire, challenge, and elevate the standard cosmetology education. Classroom and clinic space is thoughtfully crafted to evoke creativity and provide a Masterclass education.
Growing Beauty Professionals intoFuture Industry Leaders
SOHO Hair Academy Start Dates
SOHO Hair Academy is thrilled to offer more start dates than any other cosmetology school in the Omaha Metro! We highly encourage early enrollment.
Schedule a TourIowa
May 26, 2026 July 13, 2026 September 21, 2026 November 15, 2026
February 8, 2027
April 19, 2027
June 28, 2027
September 6, 2027
November 15, 2027
February 8, 2027
April 19, 2027
June 28, 2027
September 6, 2027
November 15, 2027
Nebraska
September 28, 2026
Enrollment Information
Ready to take a bold step towards your future? Come join us at SOHO Hair Academy! We have two convenient locations and offer 1800-hour programs that will get you all set for an exciting career in cosmetology, no matter which state you choose to work in.
Fill out Enrollment Application
Schedule an Enrollment Interview
Provide Proof of High School Graduation or G.E.D.
Provide Proof of Age
Pay Applicable Fees
The Women Behind SOHO
Welcome to the incredible world of SOHO Hair Academy, where dreams take flight and passion leads the way! Meet the dynamic mother-daughter duo, Somer and Ryan, whose inspiring journey of resilience and determination has transformed the landscape of the beauty industry.
Their salon, Trios, stands as a beacon of excellence, winning accolades such as Best of Omaha, 2024 Top 200 Salon and 2021 Salon of the Year from Salon Today, and the Entrepreneur Magazine Top Company Culture Award. With their combined expertise and unwavering dedication, they have created a luxurious 52-chair salon that embodies elegance and sophistication.
Driven by a desire to revolutionize the beauty industry, Somer and Ryan have introduced SOHO Hair Academy, a visionary cosmetology program that goes beyond traditional education. By infusing business acumen and leadership skills into the curriculum, they are nurturing a new generation of beauty professionals who are not just stylists but visionary leaders and entrepreneurs.
Driven by a desire to revolutionize the beauty industry, Somer and Ryan have introduced SOHO Hair Academy, a visionary cosmetology program that goes beyond traditional education. By infusing business acumen and leadership skills into the curriculum, they are nurturing a new generation of beauty professionals who are not just stylists but visionary leaders and entrepreneurs.
At the heart of SOHO Hair Academy is love
At SOHO Hair Academy, love is at the heart of everything they do. It is this love that propels them to break barriers, advocate for change, and uplift others in the industry. Through their transformative program, they are paving the way for aspiring stylists to master their craft, realize their full potential, and become trailblazers in the beauty world.
Join us on this extraordinary journey of growth, empowerment, and transformation at SOHO Hair Academy. Let Somer and Ryan inspire you to reach new heights, chase your dreams, and create a legacy that shines bright in the beauty industry. Welcome to a world where passion meets purpose, and where every dream is within reach.
Omaha Fashion Week Beauty Alliance
The Omaha Fashion Week Beauty Alliance allows aspiring students and established professionals to explore their creativity and expand their portfolio by executing unique hair and makeup looks that they might not have the opportunity to do in schools or on everyday clients.SOHO Hair Academy is proud to be the partner and director of the Omaha Fashion Week Beauty Alliance. SOHO Academy’s Founder Somer Krueger began developing and directing the Omaha Fashion Week Beauty Alliance in 2017. The OFW Beauty Alliance provides complimentary hair and makeup services to the fashion Designers that have been chosen to showcase at Omaha Fashion Week.
Growing Beauty Professionals into Future Industry Leaders
Omaha Fashion Week is the nation’s 4th largest fashion week and the only fashion week with a dedicated facility that creates an opportunity for designers to show without fees. The vision for the Beauty Alliance was to incubate the newest talent in the beauty industry and showcase THE BEAUTY ARTS to the community as a viable career path. Somer and her team create a safe space that is well organized for models to have their hair and makeup done.
The Omaha Fashion Week Beauty Alliance brings students and professionals together from across the midwest each season to create the runway looks for emerging, featured and famous national headlining fashion designers. Students and Alumni from SOHO Academy will have the premier opportunity each season to produce hair and makeup for the runway.
The Omaha Fashion Week Beauty Alliance brings students and professionals together from across the midwest each season to create the runway looks for emerging, featured and famous national headlining fashion designers. Students and Alumni from SOHO Academy will have the premier opportunity each season to produce hair and makeup for the runway.
Through this amazing event they have been able to inspire many new students to attend cosmetology school, show parents the beauty of the fashion community and create an alliance with salon owners in the metro area. SOHO Hair Academy is working to grow beauty professionals into future industry leaders!
Trios Salon has used the opportunity of the Omaha Fashion Week Beauty Alliance as a first impression to work with students and have attracted 90%+ of their new hires through this program! They donate time and resources to this cause because it makes a difference for the industry, community and helps grow their business.
Michael Pysh Photographer
(Her)Story
Somer's (her)story is truly inspiring and shows the power of perseverance and self-belief. Despite facing stereotypes and discrimination as a woman, she managed to build her business while also taking care of her growing family.
Starting her cosmetology journey as a single mother at the age of 23 she faced limited options. Somer needed to find a way to support Ryan, her five year old daughter and eliminate the need for staying on government assistance. Balancing cosmetology school and working to support the two of them, Somer failed to make ends meet. She had her car repossessed, her credit card balances grew, and the bank accounts became overdrawn.
Amid these challenges, Somer found her passion and support in the beauty community. Educators, administrators, salon owners and peers guided her personally and professionally to improve her skills in leadership, conflict resolution and communication. Once she could put her talents to work on guests behind the chair, Somer found a way out of the financial mess she had created through hard work. She saw a path to abundance and shared everything she learned with those around her. It was in this transformation that Somer discovered her passion for education and mentoring others.
Somer grew her personal business behind the chair and began mentoring new graduates as they entered the industry. The fulfillment of helping others achieve their dreams motivated Somer and her husband to begin Trios Salon in 2005. With their young daughters and toddler son watching, Somer took a leap of faith to establish a salon where aspiring stylists could grow alongside her.
Launching an employee-based cosmetology salon with no startup money, only two employees and three small children with another due any day was a tremendous risk for Somer and her family. Slowly training one employee at a time, Somer was able to build a team of stylists for Trios. There was a great deal of trial and error because there wasn’t a business book on how to be a successful salon owner. Every dollar earned was reinvested in the business to support wages and expenses resulting in financial strain for the family.
Amid these challenges, Somer found her passion and support in the beauty community. Educators, administrators, salon owners and peers guided her personally and professionally to improve her skills in leadership, conflict resolution and communication. Once she could put her talents to work on guests behind the chair, Somer found a way out of the financial mess she had created through hard work. She saw a path to abundance and shared everything she learned with those around her. It was in this transformation that Somer discovered her passion for education and mentoring others.
Somer grew her personal business behind the chair and began mentoring new graduates as they entered the industry. The fulfillment of helping others achieve their dreams motivated Somer and her husband to begin Trios Salon in 2005. With their young daughters and toddler son watching, Somer took a leap of faith to establish a salon where aspiring stylists could grow alongside her.
Launching an employee-based cosmetology salon with no startup money, only two employees and three small children with another due any day was a tremendous risk for Somer and her family. Slowly training one employee at a time, Somer was able to build a team of stylists for Trios. There was a great deal of trial and error because there wasn’t a business book on how to be a successful salon owner. Every dollar earned was reinvested in the business to support wages and expenses resulting in financial strain for the family.
After finding a financial, coaching and tracking system, they successfully expanded the nine-chair salon to a thirteen-chair salon. By training and educating graduates from the local cosmetology schools, they developed an award winning culture as recognized by Entrepreneur magazine. Trios then outgrew the thirteen-chair salon and decided to build a dream salon solely dedicated to hair services leading to the expansion of Trios Salon to 27 stations. As a result, Trios became the largest hair only salon in Omaha Nebraska.
Somer and her husband now have six children who have witnessed every moment of this journey. They know the rewards and struggles of being small business owners, mentors and leaders. They have celebrated milestones and witnessed the flowing tears. While homeschooling, they have involved their children in dreaming and innovating, as well as in serving, cleaning and making repairs, to provide them with an education beyond textbooks.
Ryan, who witnessed her mother's unwavering commitment to success from a young age, learned invaluable lessons in resilience and entrepreneurship. Since 2015, the mother-daughter duo have worked side by side, transforming their struggles into success by growing Trios Salon once again to a 52-chair luxury salon brand that is recognized as the Best in Omaha. Ryan’s exceptional communication skills and attentiveness greatly enhance the guest experience and support the salon team. She has a special ability for recognizing the beauty in others and inspiring them to reach their full potential. Together, Somer and Ryan have a shared vision of empowering others in the beauty industry.
Somer and her husband now have six children who have witnessed every moment of this journey. They know the rewards and struggles of being small business owners, mentors and leaders. They have celebrated milestones and witnessed the flowing tears. While homeschooling, they have involved their children in dreaming and innovating, as well as in serving, cleaning and making repairs, to provide them with an education beyond textbooks.
Ryan, who witnessed her mother's unwavering commitment to success from a young age, learned invaluable lessons in resilience and entrepreneurship. Since 2015, the mother-daughter duo have worked side by side, transforming their struggles into success by growing Trios Salon once again to a 52-chair luxury salon brand that is recognized as the Best in Omaha. Ryan’s exceptional communication skills and attentiveness greatly enhance the guest experience and support the salon team. She has a special ability for recognizing the beauty in others and inspiring them to reach their full potential. Together, Somer and Ryan have a shared vision of empowering others in the beauty industry.
Jasmyn worked for several years serving the team and guests at Trios Salon before she and her husband launched Amateur Coffee, Omaha’s dreamy little vegan coffee parlor, and specialty roasting company with a powerful zero-waste initiative. Jasmyn is enthusiastic about art and design. Her homeschool senior project was to design a business plan and marketing strategy for any business she wanted. Serendipitously, she chose a coffee shop. They opened their shop “out of crazy love for our industry and our community with less than ideal equipment because we ran out of money. We just had to make it work.” She is a brilliant entrepreneur and has a deep passion for activism, aiming to leave the world better than she found it.
The beauty industry changes quickly. Somer had been tirelessly training new graduates at Trios who had been hired from local cosmetology schools after the pandemic. She realized that in order for the industry to evolve to keep up with the ever-changing trends and create safe spaces for people we needed to start by focusing on the education of students from day one. SOHO Hair Academy was a vision for the future where new leaders for the Beauty Industry would encounter masterclass educators who deliver education beyond the Historical State Board curriculum and bring an unprecedented level of modern business acumen to inspire a new generation of beauty professionals. Somer and Ryan are prioritizing creating a safe space for students.
Women like Somer, Ryan, Jasmyn, and their families exemplify the true essence of perseverance, resilience, and empowerment. Their journey from overcoming personal challenges to creating thriving businesses that not only excel in their industries but also make a positive impact on their communities is a true testament to the strength and vision of women everywhere. As they continue to inspire others with their stories and achievements, they pave the way for endless possibilities, empowering women to dream big, work hard, and create a lasting legacy of hope, growth, and empowerment.
The beauty industry changes quickly. Somer had been tirelessly training new graduates at Trios who had been hired from local cosmetology schools after the pandemic. She realized that in order for the industry to evolve to keep up with the ever-changing trends and create safe spaces for people we needed to start by focusing on the education of students from day one. SOHO Hair Academy was a vision for the future where new leaders for the Beauty Industry would encounter masterclass educators who deliver education beyond the Historical State Board curriculum and bring an unprecedented level of modern business acumen to inspire a new generation of beauty professionals. Somer and Ryan are prioritizing creating a safe space for students.
Women like Somer, Ryan, Jasmyn, and their families exemplify the true essence of perseverance, resilience, and empowerment. Their journey from overcoming personal challenges to creating thriving businesses that not only excel in their industries but also make a positive impact on their communities is a true testament to the strength and vision of women everywhere. As they continue to inspire others with their stories and achievements, they pave the way for endless possibilities, empowering women to dream big, work hard, and create a lasting legacy of hope, growth, and empowerment.
The Omaha Salon Owners Alliance
The beauty industry is currently at a crossroads, facing a crisis driven by external corporate influence. The rise of single-use suite spaces, promoted by real estate developers, has led to a fragmentation within the industry. These spaces, while overpriced and underutilized, have enticed professionals in metro areas away from traditional salons, resulting in a loss of community and support.
The Beauty Industry is Being Led by Outsiders
As licensees navigate the intricacies of business ownership - including tax responsibilities and managing marketing and communication - their creative endeavors and client relationships often take a back seat, leading to a compromised work-life balance.
Licensed cosmetologists are struggling with low wages, worsened by the proliferation of corporate hourly franchise salons that fail to offer sustainable incomes. This financial pressure is pushing many stylists to their limits, forcing some to default on student loans or seek alternative employment opportunities. Corporate franchise groups are advocating against professionals by lobbying for deregulation at the state level and extreme reductions in required education, leaving the industry vulnerable.
Amid these challenges, there is a growing call for change throughout the industry. It is time to reassess business practices, renew the focus on building communities, and empower beauty professionals. In response to these industry shifts, Somer Krueger established the Omaha Salon Owners Alliance in January 2019 to connect local salon owners without corporate franchise ties. The majority of these owners are professionally licensed and have established salon businesses to mentor and cultivate new professionals. Employee-based salon owners offer the community security, employee benefits, local ownership, unique customized business models, and support for sustainability within the industry.
As an owners' alliance, we have the ability to connect, support, and enhance the demand for employment opportunities for licensed professionals in our salon establishments through a shared vision. We believe there is space for everyone and that our true competition lies in the challenges facing our industry together. The ongoing decline of the beauty community can be reversed through shared information, innovative ideas for the next generation, and encouragement during challenging times. The future of the industry depends on addressing these issues and fostering a more fair and supportive environment for all involved.
The SOHO Vision
SOHO Hair Academy is focused on the future. Our standards for advancement, passionate and experienced Educators, and supportive culture that values growth, community, and personal integrity are keys to success. The beauty industry changes fast. You don’t need a beauty school with decades of history, you deserve a hair academy with VISION!
Welcome to this Magical Moment
Here, we believe in the power of growth, community, and personal integrity. We are more than just a school - we are a movement towards a brighter future for beauty professionals. Join us on this transformative journey, where love is the driving force that unites us all. Together, we will break barriers, redefine standards, and create a legacy of empowerment and excellence.
This is not just a program; this is a vision, a calling to shape the next generation of bold beauty leaders with purpose and compassion.
- Supportive culture valuing growth, community, and personal integrity
- Personal, career, and business coaching
- Current digital curriculum with practical techniques
- Extensive recycling and zero-waste effort
- Inspiring students to be future beauty professional leaders
- Creating a safe space
- Standards for experienced Educators
- National network of opportunities
- Beyond State Board curriculum education
- Bringing business acumen to inspire new beauty professionals
- Advocating for sustainable wages in the beauty industry
- Emphasizing love as the core value uniting and healing the community
- Commitment to unity, advocacy, and becoming better allies
Meet Your SOHO Academy Team
Somer
President
Ryan
Admissions Director
Cam
Admissions
Courtney
Financial Aid
Andrea
NE Campus Manager
Carol
Iowa Director of Education/Instructor
David
Nebraska Director of Education/Instructor
Chrissy
Instructor
Jessica
Instructor
Kat
Instructor
Dahlia
Instructor
Maria
Instructor
Emily
Student Instructor
Aidan
Inventory Manager
Kiara
Master Class Educator
Our Frequently Asked Questions
Do you only offer a Cosmetology Program?
SOHO Hair Academy specializes in Cosmetology. We do not offer Esthetics, Nail, Massage, or Instructor programs.
Our Council Bluffs, Iowa campus offers a combined Barbering and Cosmetology curriculum that prepares students for the Iowa Barbering and Cosmetology Arts and Sciences license. In 2024, Iowa legislation merged the Barber and Cosmetology State Boards into a single license — giving our Iowa graduates the broadest cosmetology credential in the region.
Our Omaha, Nebraska campus offers a Cosmetology curriculum that prepares students for the Nebraska Cosmetology license.
Is Financial Aid Available?
Federal financial aid is available at our Council Bluffs, Iowa campus for eligible students. Apply at studentaid.gov using FAFSA — our school code is 007611.
Our Omaha, Nebraska campus does not currently participate in federal financial aid programs. We offer interest-free payment plans and provide guidance on additional financing options to help make enrollment accessible.
Contact us and our staff will walk you through every option available for your situation.
Do I need to attend evening or weekend classes to complete my program ?
No. SOHO Hair Academy’s program runs Monday through Friday during the day only. Evenings and weekends are entirely yours.
We designed the schedule this way intentionally — so you can chase your goals in school without sacrificing everything else in your life. Work a part-time job, spend time with family, or just decompress. Your time outside of school stays yours.
Can I attend school part-time?
No. SOHO Hair Academy is a full-time program only, running Monday through Friday during the day. Because the schedule is daytime-only with no evening or weekend requirements, most students find it easier to manage than a traditional part-time arrangement at other schools.
How long does it take to finish the 1800-hour program?
The 1,800-hour program takes approximately 13 months to complete for students attending on a standard full-time schedule.
Life happens — illness, family, personal circumstances can extend that timeline. If interruptions occur, your program simply takes longer to finish. We work with students to keep them on track.
Will you help me find employment after graduation?
Yes. SOHO provides career support including salon tours, career fairs, business coaching, resume preparation, and interview guidance. Our founders own and operate Trios Salon and XOXO Salon in the Omaha metro, giving graduates direct connections to working professionals and potential employers in the local industry.
Our goal is to make sure you hit the ground running — not just licensed, but ready to build a career.
Will you help me get licensed in other states?
Yes. Many states have reciprocity agreements that recognize a cosmetology license in good standing from another state. Because SOHO operates in the Omaha–Council Bluffs metro — a two-state area — we actively assist students through the application process for both Iowa and Nebraska licensure.
One important note: Iowa’s new Barbering and Cosmetology Arts and Sciences license currently reciprocates as a Cosmetology license only (not a Barbering license) in other states. We will help you navigate the specific requirements for whichever states you plan to work in.
I did it. I finally did it. I never thought I would make it to this moment. The moment of every laugh, every tear, every hour becoming nothing more then an experience. I wouldn’t change a thing about it. Everything that happened, every makeup hour, every missed day I wouldn’t change it for the world.
All it took was one sit down with Somer and the spark lit again. The hope that I would be someone great was there again. My past, my “old ways” were forgotten and I showed up and I made up the hours and I crossed the finish line.
SOHO Hair Academy thank you. Thank you for the confidence, the knowledge, the light at the end of the tunnel. Somer Krueger thank you for believing in me ❤️
I will always cherish my time in school but I am so glad to be done ❤️
Here is to the next Chapter 🥳🥳🥳
All it took was one sit down with Somer and the spark lit again. The hope that I would be someone great was there again. My past, my “old ways” were forgotten and I showed up and I made up the hours and I crossed the finish line.
SOHO Hair Academy thank you. Thank you for the confidence, the knowledge, the light at the end of the tunnel. Somer Krueger thank you for believing in me ❤️
I will always cherish my time in school but I am so glad to be done ❤️
Here is to the next Chapter 🥳🥳🥳
Jonni
SOHO Graduate
Schedule a Tour
Our Admissions team can be reached via text at 402.881.0033 or by phone at 712.328.2613. If you are ready to apply for school, click here.