KCC expands cosmetology program for online access

In only its second year of operations, the Cosmetology program at Klamath Community College is expanding to allow for online access for students to become licensed professionals in barbering, esthetics, hair design, and nail technology.

With student enrollment for Cosmetology currently exceeding availability at KCC’s downtown Klamath Falls Cosmetology facilities, the move to also allow online access was deemed necessary to meet overwhelming demand. This initiative allows students, including those already licensed as cosmetologists, to enroll and earn an Associate Degree in Cosmetology or Esthetics, or obtain certification as a licensed professional, in as little as six months online. The KCC Associate Degree in Cosmetology is meticulously crafted to equip professionals with the skills needed to elevate their business acumen, as well as training students in beauty and wellness. Notably, the program focuses on key subjects such as marketing and financial business skills, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to start or expand their salon. This unique approach distinguishes the KCC Cosmetology program, providing a comprehensive education that goes beyond technical skill alone. In developing the program, KCC collaborated with Bellus Academy, a leader in beauty and wellness and the recipient of multiple industry awards

“Many of the world’s most esteemed beauty and wellness brands are rooted in entrepreneurship, and cosmetology provides a path to blend creativity, craftsmanship and an entrepreneurial mindset into a vibrant and rewarding career,” said Lynelle Lynch, CEO of Bellus Academy. “The associate degree offered through KCC empowers licensed professionals with a business management credential that can accelerate their career and open new paths of opportunity.”

Recognizing the transformative power of education in the industry, KCC is partnering with the KCC Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit, to offer scholarships through Beauty Changes Lives – an organization that to date has provided over $2.8 million in scholarships to cosmetology students. The KCC Foundation will donate scholarships to sponsor student tuition for the new online program. Parameters for eligibility, such as Oregon residency, can be customized at KCC’s request. Federal student financial aid is also available.

“Our approach to cosmetology, combining it with business and marketing coursework, has proven immensely popular, and this next step allows more interested students to pursue their career aspirations,” said Dr. Roberto Gutierrez, KCC president. “Whether a seasoned veteran or new to the industry, we hope people will take advantage of this incredible opportunity to enhance their career pursuits.”

For more information about the KCC Cosmetology program visit www.klamathcc.edu. Salon services are available at KCC Cosmetology, 357 E. Main St. in Klamath Falls. A wide variety of hair, skin and nails services are available to the public; call 541-882-6644 to make an appointment, or for more information visit www.klamathcc.edu.