MOHAVE COUNTY — The Mohave College District Governing Board approved during its September 19 meeting the launch of a new Cosmetology Certificate program. Pending approval from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), the College is prepared to launch the 40-credit certificate program as early as February 2026.
Mohave College would train students in hair, nail and skin care services, while also incorporating business and entrepreneurial skills through a partnership with the College Small Business Development Center. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for state licensure, as well as open their own salons or pursue additional educational pathways.
College leaders said the new program will help meet a significant local workforce need. A recent labor market report shows cosmetology jobs are projected to grow more than 12% in the coming years, with more than 300 postings currently in Mohave County alone.
“Local salon owners consistently told us, ‘We need more stylists,’ and this program directly responds to that call,” said Dr. June Weiss, Dean of Health and Human Services. “It also creates new opportunities for high school students, recent graduates, and adults seeking a career change.”
The College is looking to place the program close to its Beale Street Center in downtown Kingman, which would provide easy access for students from around the region.
“This College has heard from students and our communities and it’s clear that this type of program is needed in the county,” said Dr. Tim Culver, Interim President of Mohave College. “This will help generate more jobs, support small businesses, and give students another high-quality, affordable path to a rewarding career.”
Community surveys show strong demand for the College creating this program, with 76% of nearly 500 respondents expressing interest in enrolling, including a large number of local high school students.
The next step in the program approval process is for the College to seek approval from the HLC, an institutional accreditation agency that accredits degree-granting colleges and universities that are based in the United States. The College cannot move forward with enrolling students until it receives HLC approval.
