Cosmetology & Barber Certificates Program

Suppose you’re already a licensed cosmetologist and want to teach others the craft. In that case, our Cosmetology Instructor Certificate will give you the skills you need to become a cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, or manicuring instructor.

The timeframe to complete each program ranges from one semester to four, depending on the certificate. Courses prepare you for New Mexico licensure and entry-level employment or career advancement.

Why Earn a Cosmetology or Barber Certificate?

If you’re a creative person who wants a flexible career, a Cosmetology or Barber Certificate may be ideal. This profession enables you to experiment with different styles and be a part of emerging trends while helping people look and feel their best. A career in cosmetology or barbering gives you more control over your work schedule and earnings. As you gain experience and build your reputation and clientele, your salary has the potential to grow. If you have an entrepreneurial spirit, you can open your own business and be your own boss.

Barbers and cosmetologists are in high demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the overall employment of these professionals to grow 11% from 2021 to 2031. That’s faster than the average of other professions.

Why Earn a Cosmetology or Barber Certificate at San Juan College?

Personalized Learning Experience

Success matters at San Juan College. We’ve created an environment where instructors can give individualized attention to our cosmetology and barbering students. Small class sizes mean you’ll frequently interact with your instructors, who are dedicated to ensuring you succeed in your courses and gain the skills you need to reach your career goals.

Firsthand Experience

You’ll get to practice your skills with real clients at the San Juan College Cosmetology Salon and Spa. Our on-campus salon has professional products and equipment, so you can train using the tools of the industry. The facility enables students to gain technical knowledge, customer service, time management, and communication skills. Clients include community members and SJC students and faculty.

Affordable Certificate Options

San Juan College offers low tuition rates making a certificate in cosmetology or barbering an affordable option for you. You’ll receive a high-quality education at a low cost. You may even qualify for your certificate tuition-free through the NM Opportunity and Lottery Scholarships.

What You'll Learn

In the Cosmetology and Barber Certificate programs, you’ll learn the techniques and artistry of hair, skincare, grooming, and more. Courses prepare you to take the New Mexico Board test for licensure in your chosen branch of cosmetology or barbering. You’ll receive the knowledge and hands-on experience you need to succeed in your new career.

Cosmetology - Makeup/Hair Artist Certificate

San Juan College’s Cosmetology - Makeup/Hair Artist Certificate equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge to become a licensed cosmetologist. Courses can be completed in four semesters and cover the following topics:

• Hair theory and design, from cutting to color treatment
• Manicuring and pedicuring
• Skincare theory and practice, including facials and hair removal
• Makeup fundamentals and airbrushing
• Salon business practices, including ethics and etiquette, communication, New Mexico laws, building a client base, and business options

Cosmetology - Makeup/Hair Artist Certificate Curriculum

Barber Certificate

San Juan College’s Barber Certificate teaches you the principles and skills to begin a career in barbering. If you already have a cosmetology license, this certificate will allow you to expand your skill set to offer men’s grooming services, such as beard trimming, shaving, and edging.

Barber Certificate courses can be completed in three semesters and cover the following topics:

• Haircutting and styling
• Facials
• Shaving
• Perms and hair color
• Scalp treatments
• Business practices, including New Mexico law and business plan development

This selective program admits students in the fall, spring, and summer semesters.

Barber Certificate Curriculum

Esthetician Certificate

The Esthetician Certificate program at San Juan College prepares you to become a licensed esthetician. In just two semesters, you can complete your courses and be ready to sit for your state exam. In the Esthetician Certificate program, you'll study:

• Skin theory, from structure to common disorders and treatments
• Massage manipulations
• Facials
• Skin typing
• Skincare
• Hair removal
• Business practices, including business plan development, New Mexico laws, and salon best practices

This selective program admits students in the fall, spring, and summer semesters.

Esthetician Certificate Curriculum

Manicuring, Pedicuring, and Nail Enhancements Certificate

SJC’s Manicuring, Pedicuring, and Nail Enhancements Certificate prepares you for employment as a licensed nail technician. This certificate can be completed in one semester. Courses cover:

• Basic anatomy and physiology
• Recognizing and preventing common skin issues
• Health and well-being of fingernails and toenails
• Nail products and artificial enhancements

This selective program admits students in the fall, spring, and summer semesters.

Manicuring, Pedicuring, and Nail Enhancements Certificate Curriculum

Cosmetology Instructor Certificate

The Cosmetology Instructor Certification program at San Juan College is designed to prepare individuals to become cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, or manicuring instructors. In just two semesters, students can complete their courses covering:

• Effective teaching methods
• Course development and lesson planning
• Testing and student evaluation
• Business practices

Cosmetology Instructor Certificate

Transfer Options

Cosmetology and Barber Certificate courses can be transferred to the Cosmetology and Barber AAS degree programs at San Juan College.

Contact an academic advisor for more information about transfer options

Careers and Outcomes

The beauty salon and grooming industries are experiencing a surge in demand for skilled workers. By earning a certificate from San Juan College in your preferred branch of cosmetology or barbering, you can prepare for a new career in less than one year.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the industry is projected to experience much faster-than-average growth rates for these positions:

• Barbers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists: 11% growth rate
• Manicurists and Pedicurists: 22% growth rate
• Skin Specialists: 17% growth rate

These favorable growth rates mean ample opportunities for individuals to establish themselves in the beauty industry and pursue fulfilling careers. Whether you aspire to work in a traditional salon or barber shop setting or branch out independently as a shop owner, freelance stylist, or beauty consultant, a Cosmetology or Barber Certificate from San Juan College can help you excel in this thriving industry.

Graduates of SJC’s Cosmetology and Barber programs have worked for:

• The Man Cave Barbers
• The Head Shops Salon & Day Spa
• Born Barbers
• Suite Divas Salon
• SouthWest Barbers
• The Hair Unicorn