Apr 23, 2026  
2026-2027 Catalog 
    
2026-2027 Catalog

Cosmetology Certificate

Location(s): Gainesville Campus


Courtney Covey
Division Chair, Human Services & Hospitality
ccovey@nctc.edu
(940) 668-3314

All NCTC Cosmetology program curriculum is governed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations (TDLR) and helps prepare graduates to take the associated state TDLR examinations.

Cosmetology Certificate program requirements:

  • Be at least 17 years of age by state licensure testing date
  • Apply to NCTC and complete the college orientation
  • Complete the required Cosmetology department paperwork
  • Complete financial aid forms if applicable
  • Provide applicable transcripts

Students enrolled in this program must be able to:

  • Stand for long periods without a break
  • Use hands to complete manual dexterity skills
  • Study in a room where noise may be present
  • Accept and be willing to work with students and clients of all demographics and characteristics
  • Must not be allergic to chemicals or scents
  • Submit a record of criminal history to TDLR prior to enrolling

Level I Workforce Certificate

The 36 semester-hour curriculum in Cosmetology leads to a Level I Workforce Certificate and helps prepare graduates to take the state TDLR Cosmetology Examinations. Successful completion of the examinations will allow graduates to practice as a licensed cosmetologist in the state of Texas.

Upon completion of the Level I Workforce Certificate, students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate introductory skills, professional ethics, and safety and sanitation procedures as required by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations
  • Provide safe and appropriate care to clients receiving hair, skin, or nail services
  • Use effective communication skills with the clients
  • Demonstrate proficiency in business and ethical practices relating to the field of Cosmetology
  • Demonstrate the skills and knowledge required for successful completion of the state licensing examinations

This certificate is a pathway to the Cosmetology Associate of Applied Science degree.

Fees associated with the Cosmetology Certificate are as follows and are included in tuition and fees. These fees may vary each semester, but specific information may be obtained from the Cosmetology department.

  • Kit - Includes all supplies needed during the course of this program. This fee includes a set of professional shears, all professional electric tools, and all hair supplies needed (i.e., combs/brushes, coloring bowls/brushes, capes, clips, pins, manicuring set, etc.).
  • Course fees
  • Pivot Point LAB, Study Guide and Exam Prep
  • Supplies and Incidentals
  • State licensure exam fees
  • TDLR Permit Fee

Students admitted to the Cosmetology Program are required to buy:

  • Black scrubs. First name must be monogrammed on scrub top with school logo.
  • Vest or smock.
  • Rolling Cart

This certificate is offered through face-to-face classes. Students must have access to a computer with Internet access for online homework.

Students may enroll in the Fall/Spring/Summer, Spring/Summer/Fall, or Summer/Fall/Spring terms and complete the program in three semesters totaling 36 credit hours. Students must successfully pass courses in order to progress.

Certificate Requirements


Total Credit Hours: 36


Verification of Workplace Competencies: Eligibility to test for TDLR Cosmetology Operator’s License exam.

Financial Outlook Disclaimer


The salary information provided on this page is based on industry projections, publicly available data, and employer-reported trends. Actual salaries can vary significantly based on factors such as location, experience, education or degree level, industry demand, and individual employer policies.
Students can meet with the college’s Career Services to learn more about specific career pathways and current labor market information. The college does not promise or imply any guaranteed salary levels upon graduation.