Texas Border Business
By Joey Gomez
PHARR, Texas – South Texas College introduces a new Cosmetology certificate program with tuition that will be at least half the cost of traditional programs in the region.
Cosmetology is the newest addition to STC’s nationally recognized formula that will create highly educated professionals to the beauty industry for the first time in college history.
Applications are now being accepted for STC’s much anticipated Cosmetology program, which will begin its first cohort this March. The new course opens up a brand-new opportunity for students who are seeking to express their creativity, and who want to learn a skill or a trade while helping others, according to faculty.
“We look forward to students who have a passion for the industry,” said Cosmetology Instructor Carla Balleza, a second-generation cosmetologist with nearly two decades of experience in the industry. “South Texas College is highly committed to empowering future beauty professionals with innovative workforce development and real-world connections to reach a candidate’s fullest potential, while providing affordable tuition that is 50% less than the average cost of schools in our area.”
The new program will offer a Cosmetology Operators Certificate which can be completed in two semesters. Students will be taught theory, knowledge and get hands-on training to prepare them for state written and practical exams for licensure.
Evening classes will be held Monday through Friday from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the PSJA Independent School District Elvis J. Ballew facility located at 1100 Business US-83 in Pharr.
“South Texas College is so excited about starting this program because we know that it will be a huge benefit to our community,” said Sara Lozano, dean of Business, Public Safety and Technology at STC. “We are looking forward to this opportunity to provide a quality education that is affordable and will lead to employment. We are also very grateful for our partnership with PSJA ISD. It is because of this partnership that we are able to utilize their facility to run our cosmetology program.”
Along with skills and safe application methods, students will master the technical, professional and soft skills needed to succeed in the workplace. Among the courses, students will learn: Fundamentals of Cosmetology, Creative Artistry of Hair, Principles of Skin and Nails, Safety and Sanitation, and be introduced to a digital learning platform.
Career options for students can include positions as entry-level stylists, booth rental or contractor; make-up artist; theatre makeup or artist for special occasions; esthetician specializing in skin care facial treatments; or nail technicians specializing in manicure, pedicure and nail enhancement.
“This is for anyone who wants to make others feel good about themselves and look good,” Balleza said. “We are ready to create well-educated professionals for the industry.”
Cosmetology was among the programs prioritized by STC President Ricardo J. Solis, Ph.D. entering into his second year at the college. Other programs on the way include Aviation and Avionics, Medical Billing, Dental Assistant and a Child Development bachelor’s degree program; along with upskilling and reskilling micro-credential, or short-term certification programs.
“We decided to bring this program to the region so that students could get an affordable opportunity to pursue their passion,” Solis said. “They’ll now be able to study and get licensed without going into debt.”
Students can start the application process at https://www.applytexas.org/ and submit their application for approval as well as the transcripts required for the program.
For more information about STC’s Cosmetology program please visit southtexascollege.edu/cosmetology.
