Program Spotlight: Hill College Cosmetology turns creativity into career opportunities
Ashlee Ferguson
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 9:41 AM
Academics, Enrollment Management
Hillsboro, TX
Hill College’s Cosmetology Program was featured during the October Board of Regents meeting, highlighting the program’s history, student achievements, industry partnerships, and continued opportunities for growth.
For students with a passion for beauty, creativity, and helping others feel confident, Hill College’s Cosmetology Program offers a pathway to turn that passion into a profession. With hands-on instruction, industry partnerships, and opportunities to develop practical skills, the program prepares students to enter the beauty industry with a strong foundation for success.
Established in Hillsboro in 1980, Hill College’s Cosmetology Program has spent more than four decades preparing students for careers in the beauty industry. The program expanded in 2005 at the Johnson County Campus in Cleburne, giving students in both Hill and Johnson counties access to cosmetology education close to home.
Today, the program serves 114 students across the two campuses, including 64 dual credit students who are getting an early start on their career training while still in high school. This opportunity allows students to begin developing valuable skills and working toward their professional goals before graduating. 
In 2016, Hill College became a CHI Flagship Partner School, strengthening its commitment to providing students with industry-relevant education, professional tools, and access to experienced beauty professionals. Through the partnership with CHI/Farouk Systems, students learn from certified CHI educators and have opportunities to gain insight from internationally recognized artists and stylists.
The curriculum combines theory with hands-on application across several areas of study, including hair artistry, skin care, nail enhancement, chemical treatments, and advanced cosmetology techniques. Students develop the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to prepare for state licensure and entry-level employment.
The program’s commitment to student success is reflected in the accomplishments of its students and alumni. Hill College Cosmetology alumna Liz Santos was recognized with the Hillsboro Chamber of Commerce’s Local Business of the Year award. Two students were selected to represent CHI at a hair show in Cancun, while two others won a CHI competition and earned the opportunity to represent the partnership at the North American Hairstyling Awards (NAHA) in Las Vegas. In spring 2026, six students also signed NC3 commitments, demonstrating their dedication to pursuing technical education and career opportunities.
With a 1,000-hour program that can be completed in approximately two semesters, or one year, cosmetology offers a relatively direct route into the workforce. For students looking to build a career through creativity, technical skills, and personal connection, cosmetology can offer opportunities to grow professionally while making a difference in the lives of others.
Hill College continues to explore ways to expand career-focused education and meet the needs of students and the communities it serves. Future plans include potential barbering offerings at the Johnson County Campus and esthetics and manicure programs at the Hill County Campus.
From its beginnings in Hillsboro in 1980 to its growing presence across two campuses today, Hill College’s Cosmetology Program continues to demonstrate how accessible, hands-on education can help students build skills, pursue their ambitions, and take the next step toward a rewarding career.
To learn more about Hill College’s Cosmetology Program, visit hillcollege.edu.