Del Mar College is taking a major step in expanding its cosmetology education. The college’s board of regents recently approved pursuing a new Associate Degree in Cosmetology, which could be available as early as next fall. Before the program can officially start, it needs approval from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and notification from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Expanding Beyond the Level 1 Certificate
Currently, Del Mar College offers a Level 1 Certificate in Cosmetology designed to meet Texas state licensing requirements for cosmetology operators. This existing program will serve as the foundation for the associate degree, which aims to provide students with advanced skills and business knowledge to help them succeed in the beauty industry.
The new associate degree program will incorporate specialized coursework in:
- Advanced hair design
- Precision haircutting
- Cosmetology applications
- Business and management fundamentals
In addition, students will complete core academic courses, which will allow them to expand their career opportunities beyond entry-level positions.
Higher Education, Higher Earning Potential
One key benefit of the cosmetology associate degree is the potential for higher earnings and career advancement. According to Del Mar College, licensed hairstylists and skincare specialists typically earn between $31,165 and $33,159 annually. However, by obtaining an associate degree, graduates can unlock opportunities for supervisory roles, leading to greater financial stability and professional growth.
Moreover, students enrolled in the associate program will have the opportunity to take the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) certification exam midway through their studies, allowing them to become certified while still progressing through their coursework. At the same time, those who have already obtained a cosmetology operator license from Del Mar College can seamlessly transition into the advanced coursework required to complete their degree, further enhancing their skills and career prospects.
Pathway to a Bachelor’s Degree
The cosmetology associate degree will also serve as a stepping stone for students seeking higher education. This program allows students to apply their credits toward a Bachelor of Applied Science in Organizational Management and Leadership at Del Mar College. This pathway could lead to opportunities in the following areas:
- Salon ownership
- Beauty industry marketing and sales
- Corporate management within the beauty sector
“It could be they go on to be that salon owner,” said Jennifer Sramek, dean of the Division of Business, Entrepreneurship, and Health Sciences. “It could also be that they go into management, marketing, or sales within the beauty industry, and those additional skills would be beneficial to them as they move through the associate degree.”
Community Support and Dual Credit Opportunities
The proposed program is backed by local cosmetologists and industry professionals, who expressed strong interest in the initiative through a cosmetology advisory committee.
Del Mar College has partnered with several Coastal Bend high schools to offer free dual credit courses. This means that high school students who start taking cosmetology courses in their sophomore year could graduate with an associate degree by the time they finish high school.
Projected Growth and Financial Viability
Del Mar College is optimistic about the program’s long-term success. In Fall 2023, 107 students were enrolled in the cosmetology certificate program, and 43 certificates were awarded that year. The college anticipates 15 graduates in the first year of the associate degree program, with a projected total of 125 graduates over five years.
The financial outlook for the program is also promising. The estimated cost to launch in the first year is $51,000. At the same time, projected revenues—including tuition, fees, and state performance funding—are expected to reach $67,210 in the first year alone. Over five years, the program is expected to generate more revenue than expenditures, making it a sustainable investment for the college.
The Future of Cosmetology Education at Del Mar College
With an increasing demand for skilled beauty professionals, Del Mar College’s initiative to offer an Associate Degree in Cosmetology reflects its commitment to providing students with career-ready education. If approved, this program will help aspiring cosmetologists enhance their technical skills and prepare them for leadership roles in the multibillion-dollar beauty industry.