I came to MC College to accompany a friend and decided to get a simple trim while I was there. For context, I have over 3,000 hours of training plus a 500‑hour specialization in colour and cuts from Montreal, so I have a solid sense of what a professional learning environment should look like. Unfortunately, the experience was disappointing from the start. The space was extremely chaotic and noisy. Students were loud, unfocused, and constantly socializing over clients. It didn't feel like a training environment at all. I even had to ask them to quiet down because they were chatting over my head while cutting my hair. The haircut itself was poor, and even simple beard‑trim instructions were mishandled. The instructor offered very little guidance and didn't step in to correct obvious mistakes. My friend's haircut was even worse -- genuinely upsetting to see. The one bright spot was Miranda at the front desk. She was calm, elegant, professional, and genuinely welcoming. She was the only person who gave the place any sense of order. Overall, the service and training quality were far below expectations. A+ for Miranda. Unfortunately, the rest of the experience was an F. read more

Always a great experience to go here & get my hair cut, bleached, dyed or styled. Today I Had the absolute pleasure of having Yara as my stylist and she was exceptional. 10/10 A+++ Experience. Popped in as a walk in; for a bleach to get Spring ready. She was chill, great conversation as well as knowledgeable and detail focused. Incredibly pleased with the results. Highly recommend this multi faceted Stylist. read more

DO NOT GO HERE FOR HIGHLIGHTS OR ANY COLOR SERVICE. YOU WILL REGRET IT. PAY $50 MORE AND GO TO A REPUTABLE SALON. This is a review of my appointment on September 4, 2024 with BRITNIF. The hair color took 5 hours and I left the salon with hair photographed below. I understand that they are students and they are learning, but to charge a customer $120 for highlights when the result is so terrible, is truly unbelievable. The supervisors working with Britnif told me my hair looked good and didn't take any steps to fix it. Then I was walked to the till and asked to pay for the service. Afterwards, I colored my hair at home to try to correct it. I would not recommend Britnif for any service. She was easily distracted, took breaks to talk with her friends, looked around the salon absent mindedly and had no value for my time and absolutely no sense of urgency or professionalism. Please consider moving her from the salon as she requires significant training and customer service skills before she can provide services that are up to par with the significant prices being charged by the salon. Alternatively, the salon should consider reducing their prices significantly if this is considered an acceptable service standard. read more

MC College - Hair Salons Near Me - Edmonton, Alberta

I had a root retouch and full set of foils done last week. My stylist (McKinley von Hugo) was wonderful and I left with exactly what I asked for. Also, I spoke with Dawn at reception before and after my appointment and I can't express enough how lovely she is. I have been to MC a few times now and Dawn is always bright and pleasan. This recent visit, Dawn shared with me that she had taken multiple programs at MC and after working in the field for years she had returned to work full time for the college. Dawn put my mind at ease about my daughters education with MC College by sharing her experience. read more

Horrible experience. I booked 3 weeks in advance they changed many times then cancelled one of two appointments less than one hour before. Many calls from rude students who won't make it in the real world. Save yourself some grief, go anywhere else! read more

Had the chance to come here today for a mani with shellac and paraffin. I was told it would be 1 hr 1/2. So be warned, if you're in a rush this is not the place for you. The students have guidelines and procedures they follow and are new and starting out. If you want something quick go to the mall. I had no problem with how long it was going to be. I really like the new space located downtown from Grant Mac. As you enter the building they have reception sitting right there, they do take your temp, ensure you are masked and get you to fill out a quick COVID questionnaire and then take you to the elevator where you student awaits you. The students work space also had a plastic wall barrier that my arms fit under. She was masked and gloved. My student was very professional, super polite, kept the conversation going, checked in to see if I was ok. I found her very gentle. And you can't beat the prices. I was unaware when I booked but it was a nice surprise. My spa manicure was only $5 (reg. $25) paraffin was $5 add on and gel polish was $10 bringing my total to only $24. She let me know this promo was on until end of August. My only complaint is the school itself doesn't supply the students with enough supplies or options, ex. Very very limited nail polish colors, old nail polish, don't ask for designs they can't do it with the colors they have there. I'd suggest they have students also clean the bottles that are old. My nails as much as I wanted to love them had bits and pieces of lint and old hard nail polish in them. The student tried her best to take them off my nails. read more

MC College - Bumps left in my nails from old polish getting stuck in there - Hair Salons Near Me - Edmonton, Alberta

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I booked an appointment with Samantha Avila for a facial treatment, and the service I received was above and beyond my expectations from a student. Samantha was nice and welcoming and I felt like I was being pampered during my facial. She seemed like she knew what she was doing, and she took into consideration my personal skincare routine to identify which products were suitable for me. She was gentle throughout the whole session, and I honestly didn't want it to end because it was so relaxing. Overall, I am more than satisfied with my appointment with her, and the instructor was nice enough to check in as well. read more

Savannah Garland is a hair stylist student who worked on my hair today she took my hair back to its natural colour and added in some caramel highlight, she was amazing in making sure she asked me how I wanted my hair and what I disliked and like with my reference photos. she took her time and makes sure she has her clients leave with something they truly love. I will definitely be scheduling with her again! read more

an institution that lacks accountability and responsibility for their own actions!!! my friend book both of us for deep hair conditioning treatment, when i showed up for my appointment they cancelled it on the spot. the reason student was a level 1 student and she is only there till 6pm and my hair was too long for one hour. next time, do not commit to a job you can not do. as per the instructor, do not gaslight me as if it was my fault the job was not done. the appointment personnel should make sure that the college do not book any treatment that takes time at 5pm. to the instructor who gaslighted me. im sure we will meet again, i cannot wait to waste ur time how u did mine. read more

I've gone to MC college a number of times now, but am done wasting my time. Each time I need to make an appointment it feels impossible. I have called 5 times in the last 3 days at differing times of day hoping that would make a difference. Sit on hold for 10-15 minutes then give up. What is the point of having a booking line? not sure why they got rid of online bookings. Has been consistently troublesome for months. Taking buisness elsewhere. Two stars because once your able to get an appointment the service usually goes fine for an affordable price. read more

I have gone to this college for years to get my hair done. You cannot beat the prices. You need to be very patient as the students are always late and you are there 3 or 4 hours for a color. I was there today and had a very bad experience. My student had zero confidence. Got red dye all over my neck and in my ears. My hair is curly and she had no idea how to style it. She did not know how to use a curling iron which is pretty bad. My hair is a frizzy mess and I have to redo it myself. In general most students are good but today I got a dud. The color was good everything else terrible. First time no tip from me. Its the chance you take going here. The price is the reason I go back. read more

I came back to MC College Edmonton today after trying one of their services last March with my friend and was overall happy with the services and genial attitude of the student and teacher/supervisor. I decided to book an appointment for today - manicure & pedicure gelish (this includes paraffin & exfoliation) and two days next week for some of their specials/promotions on hair color, waxing and body treatment. It was definitely not a good experience this time around. The student was gentle and generally nice and open to feedback when I highlighted that she can remove the extra polish on the edge side of the nails prior to heating them up so it would be easier to remove than it being hard and she'd have to repeat the process. It's not my first time to get nails done and I showed her a picture of what I had before. She did try her best and I appreciated her effort. It was the 'teacher' or supervisor (I didn't get her name) who was not open to feedback nor was she helpful. She made me feel like I'm asking for too much and that she said that it wouldn't be perfect as these are students. Like making me feel like I shouldn't be expecting the service done properly. I am not expecting it to be perfect but atleast done properly. Was it too much to ask? The instructor also asked a few questions at the student on the progress, infront of me, and when she said that she still has to do paraffin wax & exfoliation, she said that she cannot be redoing the nails as this will take too much time. To clarify, this was just one nail, the pinkie where the polish exceeded the nail edges. Polish exceeded in most of the nails but more prominent on the pinky fingernail. The student tried to clean it up but because it already hardened, she somehow removed a lot of it hence she thought she would redo. And that's when I shared my feedback. Firstly, I came and booked this on a normal price, not on promotion. Secondly and mainly, do students not strive for perfection? What is the purpose of learning and being better? As a college, would this teacher not be open to feedback for improvement? After the gelish application, the paraffin wax and exfoliation would follow (as per the student), and she provided me options on the flavours available (peach, mint or chocolate; I've opted for peach this time) but then, after a few minutes, she came back with the instructor leading and telling me that they 'don't have' paraffin wax. I knew it was just a ruse or an excuse to not provide more service for me, for which I honestly do not understand. I didn't think I was demanding or expecting too much. I gave tip to the student more than what I paid for the Uber that got me there. For I know that she did try to make it an 'ok' experience for me while she was giving me insights to the stuff that they do there. I then paid and I informed reception that the classic pedicure (paraffin & exfoliation) with gelish that I booked right after the manicure to be canceled as well as the other appointments I've scheduled for next week at both the spa and the salon. It is disappointing to have such teachers that are not as open to feedback or to have not the heart to assist or not have basic customer service skills. I am not sure how students are learning well especially if there is some bias involved. Maybe there needs to be some teaching moments for the teachers too. They could learn much from the students on how they make customers/clients feel. I hope this review improves the school. I won't be going back. read more

The students are nice and the instructors always make sure you are happy with your services

I've been coming here since before they moved locations, so a very long while. The staff is genuinely nice and they do try their best, all of the students who got to do my hair were very bubbly people and always happy to do the wacky things I asked for. I'm generally asking for crazy colours, with odd patterns (blocky side stripes, Cruella De Vil, frosted tips, streaks, and layered highlights) and the very typical emo style haircut. This is a risk considering the students don't learn how to use the sheers/razor until near the end of their schooling, so they are very hesitant to use a razor on your hair. So if you're going for a more grungy/choppy emo haircut, do be warned they're not too used to the tools for that yet. But most of the instructors are always happy to teach them on the fly and walk them through it, or take over if the student is very uncomfortable with it. I've rarely had a problem with that. The majority of the instructors are very understanding and check in frequently to see if the student needs help with any part of the process. There's been times where I've come out with a stair case for a haircut, or the colour was originally wrong, but they change it in the same appointment if you ask. Or give you a complimentary haircut to fix it. Not something I'm too mad about as it's a school and they are still learning. Very cheap and they do compensate the price if you aren't happy with how it turned out. However, the last time I went I'm a little angry about. My hair is generally "compromised" as it's already bleached, and dry due to well water at home. So asking them to bleach it is a bit of a task considering the state of my hair. As expected, they don't want me to lose my hair. So this time I went in solely asking for a copper band to be placed on the natural hair and they don't touch the blonde tips, I must have explained this poorly as they put copper in the newly bleached areas all the way to my tips, taking away my blonde. The instructor apologized and said she would talk to the front desk about what happened. A different instructor then came up to me and stated "this is a school, you can't expect perfection, you shouldn't come in with a negative attitude towards us." I rarely expect perfection from this place, it's a school. I do however expect decency, or the very least come out with something the students want to put in their portfolio. Quality also wasn't the problem here, the colour turned out perfect, safe for a few spots of brown they missed while bleaching. This is expected, and it's not too noticeable, the student did an overall good job. The problem was communication and failing to ask more questions. I showed a picture of what I originally wanted, a copper blend into blonde. Knowing fully well I couldn't get that bright of a blonde I just said "leave the blonde as is and just add copper." I've never had another instructor come up and say "you can't expect perfection" especially if she had no interest in aiding in the problem at hand. I grew very agitated as she continued to repeat herself several times. The original instructor came back afterward and stripped the colour out where I wanted and ultimately fixed it, and I thank her for that. I did plan on attending this school to become a hairstylist myself, but I fear I have too much of a problem with that specific instructor to want to attend. I wouldn't appreciate if one of my teachers told a customer to not expect perfection from us. All that says to me is the teacher isn't good at instructing her students to do well with their work. Overall, the students keep their areas clean, they disinfect anything that fell on the ground. Towels are regularly washed, and they clean the chairs after use as well. It is very loud in there, generally packed with people, so it is a bit congested when it's busy. Sometimes it gets very hectic if only a few instructors are in at a time, but it can be decent enough if all of them are in at once. Students are seen practicing braids on each other while waiting between appointments, so I can assure you they are learning and doing their best. The majority of which do some phenomenal work when given the chance. The instructors also remember you and remember which way you tend to lean with your hair so they do try to tailor to you as much as they can. I'm just not fond of that one instructor's statements. read more

I got my hair done at Salon Populus in Sherwood Park instead of MC. And honestly I prefer MC College more than any other Salon or over a license hairstylist that Works in a hair salon.Yes I know the staff that monitor the students Are license hairstylist but they are way better Hairstylist then the ones that I been to in an actual hair salon. $100 for a colour correction is not as bad. I paid $300 in a hair salon and I had a Bad experience. Every time I go to MC my hair colour and cut is perfect. I am definitely am coming back and I am definitely not making that mistake again of going somewhere else because I prefer MC College over any Salon read more

MC College - Hair Salons Near Me - Edmonton, Alberta

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They have been good till yesterday claiming inappropriate behavior when none occurred beware of these spiteful tenacious on their part. These false claims stemmed from clients who were biased in the salon . read more

Had the best experience getting my hair dyed and cut! After reading reviews I was prepared to be in the chair for many hours with my knitting, bottle of water, and snacks. Everyone there was so friendly and helpful! They treated me like royalty, constantly check on me to see if I needed anything, gave me a free hair treatment, and spoiling me with so many compliments! I went in for a balayage with a shadow root and cut. In total took 5.5 hours and about $100 including 25% off for the month promo and also including tip. I will absolutely be going back and will be making sure everyone I know also goes to MC to get their hair done Melina was amazing and I wish her the best of luck with her grad and what the future hold her her! read more

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Worst experience ever. I wasted 2 hrs just for nothing. The girl who dealt with me was very rude. She was already worried by looking at my hair that she won't be able to finish at 3pm because I have thicker hair. I came that far just because I found a good deal as I have been told different price and when I went there they changed it just because I have thicker hair. She was supposed to mention it in her add that it all depends on how much hair you have. Price will vary it should be mentioned in add. She already have a problem by looking at my hair that she has more hair I won't be finished and she showed me bad attitude. When I mentioned I came so far just for the deal otherwise I could have gone to near by salon then she said why don't you go now. Its not easy to take out time but when we do manage it should not be wasted like this. Supervisor said girls didn't know if so then they shouldn't be putting an add. She put an add and gave me the price although I told her about my hair but she said price will be around it. Rude staff, worst experience, wasted 2 hrs for nothing. I won't recommend this salon to anyone. Also nobody in staff was wearing mask other than 1 and 2 of them. No mask at all it felt to me that there was no restrictions in wearing mask. read more

Came in for a balayage hair job and haircut. Brooke did an amazing colouring, styling and cutting my hair. She was patient and attentive and colored and cut my hair to the requested look. The pictures don't do it justice. This new location of MC College is directly across from Grant MacEwan. It is a bigger brighter and airier building compared to its previous location. The students I have met have always been friendly and aim to please! read more

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I booked a spa pedicure here for $40 to try it out before my vacation and it is close to work. When you go up the stairs, you get the hair salon and the spa is on the 3rd floor. My appointment was for 1PM but I had to wait about 10 minutes. Since they had a group for pedicures at 1:30, they set it up for me to get a pedicure on one of the massage tables. So far I wasn't so impressed. I sat in a chair and soaked my feet in a bucket covered in plastic. Again, I didn't think this was going to be a great experience. But, I think it really depends on the student you have. My student was about halfway in the program and she spent at least an hour and half on my feet. She took her time filing my feet to ensure they would be as smooth as possible. I also had the paraffin wax on my feet which also helped. They don't have as many polish colours as the salon but I was able to pick one that I liked. They have sandals but I had my own so that made it easier. They also had the polish that you could buy ($8) so I could was able to have matching fingernails. I'm not sure my experience would have been so positive if I had another student but I'm lucky she was efficient and took her time to ensure my foot was smooth and looking lovely! She deserved a tip and was grateful to receive one, instead of expecting it which can't be said for services in a spa. read more

This salon repeatedly misinforms customers, makes bookings that they cannot/will not fulfill, & does not take accountability for them or for their students not showing up for their appointments. The first complimentary hair cut Sept/Oct 2019 was pleasant. Results were good. During that appointment, 2 students & 2 teachers all encouraged me to come there next for my highlights. The student gave me her business card. I asked to book with said student & the front desk wouldn't allow it which frankly was simply confusing. Nevertheless, they had "another student who is fantastic with blonde hair with highlights" named Lexi available to book with instead. I also had made sure to ask specifically "what time do I need to book for so that I am able to leave for work by 4:15pm". They said "because they are students" that I should book for 2pm. I understood & I booked on December 11th- the day before a planned surgery. I called a couple of days ahead to confirm, & I was told to move up my appointment to accommodate leaving at 4:15pm. I then booked work off to arrive by 1pm. I checked in & said "I am here for my 1pm appointment with Lexi". They go to get my hairdresser. I waited 25 minutes to have NO information. I ask the front desk & I reiterated that I could not leave any later than 4:15pm. I waited again another 20 minutes. I then get approached by a student. I had to ask if she was Lexi, & she confirmed that she was not. She told me to speak with a teacher as per my request to leave by 4:15 pm. At his point we are now 1 hour behind schedule. The teacher, although kind & a bit apologetic, states that Lexi was somehow "busy with a client". Due to them being students, this is said to be why they suggest to leave as much as 7-8 hours for a cut & highlights. I stated that nobody ever told me that I would require 7-8 hours and that this is ridiculous to expect that someone would be able to book off an entire day of work to accommodate a hair appointment. I asked if teachers would help students to hit their target appointment time. They again take no accountability & claim that they tell their customers about these circumstances. At this point, I knew that we would not reach the deadline. Along with the offer of 50% off of my next service I accepted to rebook, although I was already overdue in the first place for my hair due to the "booking" needs of said student Lexi. The next appointment was then booked a couple of weeks after this disaster. I show up 20 minutes early. This time, Lexi did not even come to school that day! I was told that this is somehow "to be expected about appointments and that this is out of their control because they are students". No phone call to warn me! No teacher was willing to help with the situation. There was no recourse available due to a student completely failing to show up for her clients. Fast forward to now & the time now has come for another appointment. I decided to call MC College & ask if the original hairdresser who had wanted me to come back to have her do my hair was available. They booked me with her. I decided yesterday to call & to confirm this. Low & behold, that student has graduated & was already finished taking new appointments at the time of the booking!! This is absolutely ridiculous. I completely understand that students are allowed to have a personal life to attend to, and for there to be flexibility in their schedule. However, the complete lack of commitment to upholding appointment schedules without any contingency plan for clients should a student need help with their schedules just baffles me. I myself have had practicums in my school years & I would have lost grades & not passed courses had I chosen not to show up to appointments with clients. At the end of the day, your time is valuable & nobody, not even a college and students should take this for granted. Save your money & go to a place that values you & your business instead. read more

Increasingly Disappointing. I don't want to be rude so I will not use names, however I will fully explain my experience. I wanted balayage. I have dark blonde/ light brown hair and I wanted 3/4 of it to be blonde, balayage style. I used a picture for reference, which all the teachers looked at and then explained to her what to do. She did not know how to balayage. That was clear. She used foils and had a few teachers tell her she didn't need them. She claimed she was taught this way. She teased my hair before placing the product (which is a debunked method and clearly does not work) and didn't make any attempt to blend. She didn't know how to brush out the massive knots she made in my hair, and I had to TEACH HER how before she ripped more of my hair out. She didn't know how to curl hair properly either. It all went in one direction and the way she did it make it look like I was wearing a hat all day which was awful. My hair is not balayage. At all. It's 95% blonde. Lucky for her, I've been completely blonde before and don't mind. However my hair is incredibly blocky and unblended. If I wanted to get it fixed, it would take a highly skilled hairdresser HOURS to go in and individually dye all the darker spots. I told her not to cut my hair. There is no way I could trust her with scissors. She would leave multiple times for minutes at a time without telling me where she was going. Both at the salon chair and while washing my hair. So that was super comfortable on my neck. She barely spoke. No pleasantries or explanations. It was wildly uncomfortable. This took 4 hours. But here's the thing. They DO have good hairdressers. The girl next to me got amazing treatment and a great hairstyle and amazing outcome and looked like she had a super fun experience. Other girls around there were clearly skilled and within their competency to be doing what they were doing. My friend comes here for balayage and has perfect outcomes every time. It solely depends on who you get, and how willing they are to admit they are out of their depth before ruining your hair. I am not going back to get this fixed. I do not trust them with my hair anymore. I'm not sure if I will return again at all. Edit; I just noticed the under layer is an ashy white/ blonde, and the top layer is yellow when compared to the bottom. Nice. read more

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I recently went here for a manicure and a haircut. I was really happy with the haircut. The student Anes was very hands-on and listened to what I wanted. I would highly recommend Anes. The manicure was OK but it took two hours and it was a little bit messy. But not a big deal considering the price and considering it is done by students. I would recommend this place if you're looking for a cheaper alternative to a haircut ,manicure or pedicure. They also do hair color, perms, eyelashes etc. Just know that everything will take a little bit longer because the students are learning. It's located in their brand new building by Grant McEwan and the building is beautiful. With glass windows from floor to ceiling. Book ahead because it can get quite busy. They also have two For one haircuts on right now. Check their website or call for more information. read more

This review is for people with discerning taste and who are concerned about the level of hygiene and sanitation in an establishment: I went to Marvel yesterday for a cut, colour and foils. While I only paid a meagre $55.00 for all of this - I now understand why Edmonton has so many poorly trained individuals who are working in this industry. The college salon had about 100 students wandering around the salon -- there was no semblance of authority, direction, work being done and there was far too much 'heady' chatter from students who are not given direction. The salon was an absolute pigsty -- the work stations have no sanititzing solution what-so-ever, the floors, sinks, work stations are disgusting. So, your chances of picking up a fungal infection are really good here as the students do not practice any sanitary techniques what-so-ever. The instructors and learning objectives at this college are obviously very deficient -- the girl that did the services for me yesterday was so ill-prepared in her skills and ability and she was one week away from graduation! There is no way that she could be considered a trained and certifiable stylist. The cut I received, I could have done myself and the colour was terrible. So, although I only paid $55.00, I still came out with a disasterous cut and colour and students who have had 9 months of training should be able to deliver a quality service; therefore, as mentioned above -- no wonder Edmonton is lacking quality stylists with skills and ability which would give a certificate some authenticity. From my understanding, there are hundreds of students that graduate from this college yearly and most of these folks are from Alberta and will practice in Alberta -- so us as consumers are getting very poorly trained individuals who are delivering a service that has no credibility due to this really bad school that seems more concerned in 'pumping' them through and out and making big bucks with regard to tuition, tools, etc. Very big business here! read more

I tried out the massage services at Marvel College in hopes of finding a cheaper way to feed my massage addiction. I was pretty disappointed by the whole experience. First of all, just booking the massage was a challenge. I called several times, and left messages. No one called me back. When I finally got through, I was told they didn't have a single opening for a month and a half. Ok, fine. So I booked my hour long massage and waited. When you arrive, there is no signage directing customers where to go. I ended up in the loading dock or something. Tip: go to the left entrance, up the stairs. I got up stairs, walked up to the desk and said I had an appointment for a massage. The girl at the desk rolled her eyes at me and said the spa was on the third floor, before going back to whatever she was doing. She was not pleased when I had to bother her again to find out how to get to the third floor. I found the spa desk and waited for 5 minutes while the three people behind the desk helped the one woman in front of me. Then I was told that I would not be getting an hour massage, since there was no one available who could do it. She also claimed that they had called me earlier in the day. I did not receive this call. Finally I got in for my massage. The girl who did it was ok. Not particularly friendly, but not quite as cold as the other staff I'd encountered. She seemed kind of unprepared for the whole thing, but I was ok with that since these are students. However, the massage table was weird and didn't have a proper headrest. I got an extensive massage on my left shoulder only, and the rest of my back mostly got ignored. I ended up leaving with a relaxed feeling left shoulder, and extra pain in my right shoulder and neck from the terrible table set up. But, it was definitely cheaper. In conclusion (of this essay), I won't be back to Marvel, and I'll just have to start saving my pennies for regular massages. read more

Marvel College is a great place to go if you're looking for some serious pampering but have a low budget. I used to come here all the time to get my hair cut for about $20-30, and I'd keep coming here if it wasn't that far for me now. I didn't know this before, but they also provide services for everything from massages and nail esthetics. They're a beauty school training students to become fashion and cosmetics professionals. All the work is done by students, but they always do an amazing job. If you feel nervous about that though, you can request a more senior student. I've never had a bad experience coming here however. I'm not too sure if they accept walk-ins, as I've always made an appointment. The stylists are really friendly and sociable though, and you don't get that awkward and choppy silence with some hair-stylists. Their website is worth checking out too, cause they have great specials every month. For October, it's $15 to get your nails done. Personally, I like the December special, when all back massages are going to be $25. Hmm, maybe I will make a trip over there after all ... read more

Although they're students- the haircuts are always amazing! They receptionists are friendly and always able to help me book an appointment when it works for me. This is an awesome spot since they are located right across from Macewan I usually just go right before class. The students are basically graduates lots of them just finishing up their hours- the professionalism and haircuts are always great. They also have professional stylists walking around reviewing their work and giving advice. I've only had a problem once, and once I called them they booked me back right away and fixed it for free! Not to mention they're the most affordable place to get a great men's cut. Nothing but the best from these guys- I'll be back soon for a cut with the best Shimendi Effram :) read more

I had to attend a formal event and wasn't quite sure how to do my hair so decided to try out Marvel. As this is a learning facility they have students who provide services at a reduced cost. As a patron you are required to sign a release (acknowledging that the person about to provide a service is not fully trained) but after that it feels like a normal appointment. The salon is quite large and they have stations set up close together so it felt a bit squishy as I walked to my chair but once I was sitting I didn't notice that as much. The hairstylist took the time to talk to me and learn what I really wanted with my hair, she even did 2 trial curls to give me the decision on how I wanted it to look. Then an instructor was called over to give the go-ahead. Then she did my hair, confirming several times throughout the appointment that she was going the direction I wanted and even taking comments well. At the end the instructor came back and approved the final outcome. My stylist was phenomenal - I came out of there looking like a million bucks. I am sure at a professional salon I would have paid $100+ and instead it only cost me $20. I am not sure if I would get a hair perm or color here but lots of other people were at the same time that I was there and they looked great too. I will definitely be back to try a haircut! Overall, I think the experience really depends on WHO does your hair but for the cost I really think you can't go wrong. read more

MC College is a beauty technical school in Edmonton that teaches hairstyling, aesthetics and fashion design. It's located on 106 Street and 100 Avenue (Cafe Select is in the lower part of the same building). MC College (formerly Marvel College) uses a hands-on approach when teaching their students. Students practice their skills on the public to gain experience and knowledge. The public is most welcome and anyone can book an appointment for their salon and spa services. Here's where I get interested! I can get a decent hair cut for around $15 and a pedicure for $30. Now keep in mind the services are performed by students, but they are supervised by professionals, but there have been a time or two where I didn't quite get the hair style I had hoped for. But most times it has been a good experience. If you're on a budget but still want to a decent hair cut and be a glamazon for a day give MC College a try. read more

I have been here for several hair cuts and have always had a great experience. The students are well-supervised and very careful, and the price is certainly right! The only consideration is to allow yourself an hour and a half for a regular hair cutting appointment - they go carefully making sure you're happy, and the instructors have to check the work and do any touch-ups. read more

First of all, I contacted Marvel College last fall because I wanted a perm (spiral) done on my past shoulder length hair, but didn't want to pay the high price at a regular hair salon. They didn't give me a spiral perm as I had asked for, I think because I had had my hair chemically straightened 3 to 3 and 1/2 years ago that they thought it was a higher risk for me having damaged hair. The girl who gave me the regular perm assured me that my perm would turn out like a spiral perm. I WAS initially quite happy with the results when I paid ($60 I think) on the perm. But then again, your hair always or usually looks great right after you leave the salon. In the days to come though, I found that my hair looked frizzy with this perm, particularly on top, so I ended up curling a lot of it in the front with a curling iron. I waited until now, now that it's finally Spring, to have a spot perm as the girl who did my perm suggested. However when I had asked for her, I was told by someone that she has since graduated. A different girl would call me back later that day, and when she did, she told me when I told her how long my hair was (down to my boobs) that the process would take too long for her exam. In the middle of the phone conversation she either hung up on me, or we were somehow cut off. Either way, she didn't attempt to call me back. I was originally booked for the next day to have a perm, but while telling her about my hair, that was when we suddenly got cut off or she hung up. I wasn't impressed that she didn't attempt to call me back after that to confirm or cancel the initial appointment, and NOW that I have had a new spiral perm done at Aveda Institute, I found that the hair strands that were permed are also now half STRAIGHT or near straight where the previous regular perm was!! I don't blame the girl who gave me my spiral perm, because she conferred with her advisor about how the rods were placed in my hair, and they were in the correct pattern, done just like the previous perm was. But I ended up using my curling iron again once I got home, because I thought my hair looked out of balance- half newly spiral permed, and half straight, instead of uniform all throughout, with an even distribution of curl. I personally do NOT advise anyone to consider having their hair done at Marvel College. If I had gotten the spiral perm I had asked them for, my hair would be evenly curled now, and unless this is just temporary for whatever reason due to the neutralizer or whatever other hair product the girl put on my hair, I'm worried that it's now permanently screwed up, and I'm gonna be right back to having to use the curling iron as I had to before, and like I did once I got home! :( Instead contact Aveda Institute, located on Whyte Avenue, instead- it's a classy, more spacious salon and is also quieter. While I had declined, the girl who gave mt me the spiral perm had asked me if I wanted a hand massage, she used a special conditioner on the ends, and I'm pleased with the spot perm I got, which cost $70. I tipped the girl $15 also. MC College is often crowded with students, so it's kinda noisy as well as fairly cramped, and while the instructor IS good at checking in with the students to make sure they're doing the procedure right, that's the best I can say about it. read more

I was a little bit weary to have a student cut my hair, but only a little bit. Really my slight trepadation came from everyone I told that I was coming here to get my hair done, not from any thought of my own ("Really? You're going to trust your hair to a student? Good luck!"). I was in need of a change with my hair and was feeling adventurous and so off to MC College I went. The student I met with was lovely, if on the quiet side. She gave a pretty thorough consultation, asking me all sorts of questions about my hair, scalp and skin, personal preferences and what I wanted to come out of the cut with. She wrote everything down, had me pick my hair dye and then confirmed with her instructor before starting the process. I won't lie, the whole thing took a long time. I was in the chair for over 2.5 hours and I have a pixie cut that I was getting to be reshaped, at a regular salon I know it wouldn't have taken that long. However part of the process is getting most steps of the process checked by the instructors. Yes that's a bit tedious but I'd much rather have that than an unfixable mistake take place because nobody was checking--my hair is already short, I don't have much to lose! My highlights looked great, my hair colour is awesome and the cut is almost exactly what I asked for. I think it looks great and happily let the (soon-to-be!) stylist take a photo for her portfolio. When the instructor came to check for the final time all she did was clean up the edges a tiny bit and offer some styling tips (to the student, not me). All in all I paid $55 including tip for a cut, highlights and colour. If you have the hours to spare I would absolutely recommend making an appointment here. I'm definitely going to go back the next time I need a colour, it was a fantastic colour and the price can't be beat. read more

I was super impressed with my experience at MC! I hadn't been here for years and got a hair mask treatment, wash, cut & style today by Isabella! What a great level of professionalism by her & her instructors! Isabella was gentle with my hair, she didn't rush and was very confident. You'd never know she was a student, honestly. I left MC today with a fresh cut, beautifully conditioned hair and a big smile! Thanks team! read more

I honestly have never really had a problem with any of the students doing my hair. I am not super high maintenance, and its hard to mess up my awesome hair. All I wanted was a trim, and the instructor was to do my fringe as the student was too nervous. Well, the damn instructor didn't listen to anything I said and just cut them straight across including the side pieces that were there to frame my face. I look completely retarded, and I will never go back because of this. She should NOT be an instructor. What an incompetent idiot! Not impressed at all. Almost had a mental breakdown. Somebody better be able to fix it, or I will be investing in either a wig or bang extensions. Woe is me, indeed. NOT HAPPY! read more

I went to MC college just for a trim. Angela did a fantastic job, and she was great to chat with. It did take up to 2 hours, but as long as you know to expect that (it's because they constantly are having their work checked by instructors, so that's good, in my opinion!), it's a great choice. read more

I went in to Marvel today to get a Colour and Trim done! After my consult with the stylist and instructor I decided, and yes I made the decision I was not pressured into it, to have foils and a colour done! I was a little concerned that this was going to be way over what I budgeted for but was pleasantly surprised to learn it would be only $70.00! I love, love, love the results! It did take longer than it would have in a regular salon, but, my stylist Meagan and Colour assistant Mackenzie were lovely, attentive, friendly girls that will do great in the business! Thank you all and I can't wait for my next experience at Marvel! Anne-Marie read more

Made a phone call requesting a spa gift package , so we may bless a single parent for Christmas. Marvel replied, OF COURSE and the package was beautiful. When I enter this salon, the technicians are polite and of excellence. The staff also are so friendly and approachable. This is an excellent company and would and have recommended many to this facility. Elaine Dyrberg Inner City Outreach Minister @ Thrive read more

Usually when I go, I always end up getting something ok! The last time I went, my hair was uneven, and cut shorter then I wanted it to be cut! About 2 inches more than I wanted! Another person I met also had her hair cut too short! She had asked for 1 inch trim and the student cut off more then 5 inches off! How does this happen? How can someone take off more then 5 inches off and think that it is 1!! I don't recommend this place if you treasure your hair a lot! I will definitely not be going back there!! read more

I came in today as a model for a Master Hair Stylest to get qualified in Alberta. The place is busy with students/instructors and general public. There are not too many signs telling you where to go so it is a bit confusing. They work with really old equipment. The atmosphere is not to inviting. No art or decor that I saw. Parking is so expensive! $25.00 for half a day. Staff are friendly and helpful. Not sure if I would go back to get services simply because for the price of the parking you might as well go to a certified stylets. Not the tidiest place for a salon. I did check out their prices for students to practice and they are pretty good. Not sure how good of a job they would do but worth a try if you have a small budget. read more

Employees are very rude. They also told me hair color will only cost $100 plus taxes but after my hair is done, I paid $280. I do not mind paying that much if my hair came out nice. it was so terrible! The color is so uneven and my hair is really dry. The girl do not even know how to iron my hair. I came out to the salon with a frizzy and damped hair. I cried and asked for a refund or discount but they did not let me. I will never go back and do not recommend to all the people I know. Also, I know that they're students but they should have a good customer service as well. read more