La' James and Iowa Central expand dual-credit cosmetology for high school students

La' James International College and Iowa Central Community College say their free dual-credit cosmetology program for Iowa high school students keeps growing as more teens seek early career exposure. The program offers college credit, hands-on training, and a pathway into cosmetology education before graduation.

Why it matters: - The program gives Iowa high school students a no-cost way to test a cosmetology career early. - The dual-credit structure lets students earn college credit before graduation. - The program also helps build a pipeline of future licensed cosmetology workers for Iowa salons and spas.

What happened: - La' James International College and Iowa Central Community College report steady enrollment growth in their free dual-credit cosmetology program for high school students. - The program has grown since launch and continues to add students in fall and spring semester offerings. - Jessica Howe, director of social media, said the program has seen “consistent, steady growth” and reflects demand from students who want to explore a career path before graduation. - The program is open to high school students interested in starting cosmetology classes while still in school.

The details: - Students can take two Iowa Central Community College cosmetology courses that count toward future cosmetology education at La' James International College. - COS108, Theory of Hair and Hair Care Services I, covers hair fundamentals, hair care, salon services and career-preparation skills. - COS108 includes classroom instruction, weekly labs, virtual guest speakers and hands-on campus visits at La' James International College. - COS108 also introduces retailing and professional product recommendation skills. - COS109, Theory of Hair and Hair Care Services II, covers haircutting, hairstyling, hair color and chemical texture services. - COS109 also teaches students to distinguish between chemical and non-chemical services. - COS109 includes foundational business skills such as retailing, referrals and rebooking. - Each fall and spring semester includes three hands-on training sessions held on Thursdays at La' James International College. - The sessions are part of the semester coursework and take place in a professional cosmetology school environment. - La' James International College provides required textbooks and kit items for weekly lab work. - Students also receive surprise goody bags. - On-campus visits require a dress code. - La' James International College provides an LJIC activewear shirt, which students must wear with black pants and black shoes.

Between the lines: - The program is designed to lower barriers to entry by covering materials and offering guided exposure to salon-style training. - Early classroom and hands-on experience can help students decide whether to continue in cosmetology after high school. - The expansion fits broader industry demand for trained cosmetology professionals in Iowa.

What's next: - COS108 and COS109 will continue to be offered in fall and spring semesters. - After high school graduation, students who want to continue can contact La' James International College directly. - The LJIC admissions team will help graduates enroll in the next available cosmetology classes to finish professional training. - More information about La' James International College is available at ljic.edu.