Cosmetology
Do you enjoy working with hair and makeup? Do you enjoy working in a fun environment with a flexible schedule? Do you want to build your own schedule and have the freedom of an entrepreneur? Do you want to earn an excellent salary where your income reflects your work? Do you enjoy talking with people? Do you want to work with people from diverse backgrounds? Do you want to avoid working in an office? Do you want a career where you may work with celebrities? Do you want a career with a strong job outlook?
If you answered yes to five or more of the above questions, Cosmetology may be an excellent career choice for you!
Admission Information
Credentialing Options
Frequently Asked Questions
Program Director: LaTia Hairston
LaTia Hairston has been a N.C. licensed cosmetologist for 20 years and a N.C. licensed cosmetology instructor for 14 years. Hairston previously taught as the lead instructor at Randolph Community College for 10 years, Regency Beauty Institute, The Cosmetology Institute, and Carolina Beauty College. She has an Associate in Applied Science degree in cosmetology from Randolph Community College. Hairston is currently a junior at Winston-Salem State University, majoring in Interdisciplinary Studies with a business concentration.. She also has earned several certificates of achievement from Milady’s Master Educator Career Institute.
She is no stranger to the Beauty Industry, of which she has continuously been a part of for over 20 years. She began in high school at the age of 16 when she enrolled in the cosmetology program at the Career Center in Winston-Salem, N.C. Overall, her experience gained in the beauty industry has taught her the importance of making a positive impact in the lives of her students. Hairston has instructed all aspects of cosmetology, including hair, nails, skin care, instructor training, and ACA college student success courses online.
Her passion for providing a fun and motivating learning atmosphere is often demonstrated within the classrooms. In 2007, she competed and won an award for creating the "best educational classroom game." Carolina Beauty College awarded her the opportunity to attend the Cosmetology Educators of America Convention in Las Vegas. From this, she brought new knowledge back to her students and colleagues.
Hairston has been an active member of the North Carolina Community College Cosmetology Instructors Association for the past 10 years. She continues to volunteer and participate in career days at several local elementary, middle, and high schools in the triad area. She has mentored several graduating students for their high school senior project in the Asheboro City Schools and Randolph County Schools. Hairston’s favorite quote is “The mediocre teacher tells; the good teacher explains, the superior teacher demonstrates, the great teacher inspires.” – William Arthur Ward
Instructor: Kathy Grant
Kathy Grant is a licensed cosmetologist and cosmetology instructor with over 39 years in the cosmetology industry. She obtained her cosmetology degree at Leon's Beauty School in 1981. She has worked in almost every aspect of the cosmetology industry. As a national artist she has taught all over the United States in many beauty schools, salons, hair shows and events. She has worked alongside some of the top stylists in the industry as well. She is well versed in all aspects of cosmetology with a specialty in hair color as a certified master colorist. She has owned and operated three salons since 1987. Currently her position as an instructor at GTCC allows her to share her passion for this ever-changing industry with the students of GTCC. It is her desire to bring real-world experience to set her students up to be salon ready upon graduation.
Yes, but certain requirements may apply. Please visit our Financial Aid web page or call the Financial Aid office at 336-334-4822 Option 3.
Tuition rates are established by the N.C. General Assembly and are subject to change. Cosmetology students will need to purchase a cosmetology uniform along with appropriate footwear. Click on link below for cost breakdown of the first semester and a list of additional items needed for this Program.
Classes are held Monday through Friday. Students are required to clock in by 8:00 am and are released at 2:30 pm.
All Cosmetology classes are taught during the day on the Jamestown Campus. We do not currently have an evening program.
The requirements vary depending on the certification you are obtaining. If you wish to obtain a certificate, you must complete (1,200) hours along with a required number of services regulated by the NC State Board of Cosmetic Arts Examiners. If you wish to obtain a diploma, you must complete (1,500) hours along with a required number of services regulated by the NC State Board of Cosmetic Arts Examiners. After the completion of both, the student would take the Apprenticeship Exam or the Cosmetology Exam to be issued a license.