Cosmetology Program

This Technical Certificate program is designed for students with a creative talent for hair design and enjoy helping people look their best.  Located on the Helena campus, students learn all phases of professional imaging such as hair style/design, chemical processes for hair coloring, skin care, nail care, and other business principles related to salon operations.  This program includes a competency-based curriculum of theory and hands-on clinical applications associated with the cosmetology industry.  A Certificate of Proficiency in Cosmetology Manicuring is also available.

Students enrolled in the program complete 45 credit hours, which is equivalent to 1500 hours, according to the Arkansas Department of Health Cosmetology Section guidelines and are prepared to successfully pass the Arkansas State Licensing Exam in Cosmetology.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Cosmetology Program, students will be able to:

• Perform services in hair care and design including hair cutting, hair styling, hair coloring, scalp protection, and chemical texture.
• Demonstrate advanced techniques in manicures, pedicures, skin care, and facial makeup procedures. 
• Demonstrate proficiency in using salon equipment and tools to perform cosmetology services.
• Practice safety, sanitation, and infection control procedures.
• Develop business management and customer service skills that apply to salon operations.

Admission Requirements

To enter the Cosmetology program, students must apply for admission to Phillips Community College. To apply for admission, students must:

• Have a high school diploma or GED;
• Provide ACT scores or take the ASSET or NG ACCUPLACER exam for placement in English and math.  PCCUA offers this free of charge; and
• Make an appointment with the Cosmetology Department to obtain an application packet.

Program Requirements for Cosmetology

Nail Technology/ Manicuring Program

This Technical Certificate program is designed for students with a creative talent for hair design and enjoy helping people look their best.  Located on the Helena campus, students learn all phases of professional imaging such as hair style/design, chemical processes for hair coloring, skin care, nail care, and other business principles related to salon operations.  This program includes a competency-based curriculum of theory and hands-on clinical applications associated with the cosmetology industry.  A Certificate of Proficiency in Cosmetology Manicuring is also available.

Students enrolled in the program complete 18 credit hours, which is equivalent to 600 hours, according to the Arkansas Department of Health Cosmetology Section guidelines and are prepared to successfully pass the Arkansas State Licensing Exam in Cosmetology.

Students in the Nail Technology/Manicuring Program will be able to perform the following tasks:

• Understand the nail structure and its disorders.
• Perform advanced and specialty manicures, pedicures, and massages.  
• Learn and apply basic interaction skills with diverse groups of people in the salon environment.
• Apply basic concepts of maintaining a healthy body and mind.
• Engage clients with basic salon and work communication skills.

Program Requirements for Manicuring/Nail Technology

Career Options

• Hairstylist
• Manicurist
• Salon Owner

Program Cost

Estimated cost to receive a Technical Certificate in Cosmetology based on the 45 credit hour program:

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