Barbering is a craft that combines skill, style, and personal connection—and at Texas Barber University (TBU), students learn to master all three. From sharp fades to precise line-ups and straight-razor shaves, barbering offers techniques that set it apart from cosmetology. Unlike cosmetologists, barbers focus specifically on men’s grooming services, including beard trims, razor shaves, and intricate hair designs that require expert precision. TBU students receive hands-on training along with essential skills like social media marketing and client communication to prepare for a successful career.
The 1000-hour program typically takes about nine months to complete, blending practical instruction with theory to help students pass their licensure exams confidently. Key skills include mastering fades and designs, but also learning how to understand and engage with clients—because being a great barber is as much about people as it is about hair.
TBU challenges common stereotypes, welcoming both men and women to the profession and creating an inclusive learning environment. Their mission is to rewrite the narrative around barbering and open doors for all aspiring artists.
Support extends beyond the classroom. The university helps students connect with local barbershops and provides business insights to those dreaming of opening their own shops. Several alumni have already secured rewarding positions in top barbershops, a testament to the quality and community focus of TBU.
At the heart of the program is instructor Eric Acosta, whose passion for barbering started in high school. After honing his craft and gaining fame in Kansas, Eric traveled to Florida and then settled in Porter, Texas, where he opened TBU. He continues to travel and learn new techniques, sharing fresh inspiration with his students while encouraging them to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles.
Eric’s advice to aspiring barbers? “Never stop doing what you love, even if you hit a hiccup. Achieving your dreams is a big step in life that no one can take away from you.”
Affordable, hands-on, and community-driven, Texas Barber University offers more than just a diploma; it’s a place where creativity meets opportunity and futures are shaped one cut at a time.