Central Piedmont opens new Cosmetic Arts Building at Harris Campus, expanding cosmetology offerings for students and community

Central Piedmont Community College has officially opened its newly renovated Cosmetic Arts Building at the Harris Campus, creating Mecklenburg County's premier destination for hands-on education in cosmetology, barbering, massage therapy and other beauty and wellness professions. 

The transformed facility provides students with modern, industry-standard learning environments while expanding access to affordable beauty and wellness services for community members. Designed to mirror professional salons, barber shops, spas and wellness settings, the building allows students to gain real-world experience by serving clients under instructor supervision.

 “This facility represents how Central Piedmont prepares students for successful careers while meeting the workforce needs of our growing region,” said Dr. Heather Hill, Central Piedmont's provost. “Students will learn in a professional environment that reflects today's industry standards, gain valuable hands-on experience and graduate ready to succeed.”

Expanding educational opportunities

The new facility significantly expands Central Piedmont's capacity to train the next generation of licensed beauty and wellness professionals. Clinic capacity has increased by 40%, growing from 50 to 70 chairs and creating additional opportunities for both students and community clients.

Curriculum programs include:

• Associate in Applied Science degree – Cosmetology
• Cosmetology diploma
• Cosmetology certificate
• Dual enrollment pathway for high school students leading to a Cosmetology certificate

Short-term training programs include:

• Barbering Technology
• Cosmetology in Spanish
• Esthetics Technology
• Manicuring and Pedicuring
• Massage Therapy
• Natural Hair Care

Barbering, esthetics and nail technology are new offerings for Central Piedmont, further expanding pathways into high-demand careers.

Students can complete a cosmetology, barbering or massage therapy education at a fraction of the cost of many private schools, helping make career training more accessible and affordable.

Supporting workforce and community needs

Central Piedmont's Cosmetology program has served the community for more than a decade, licensing more than 700 students and maintaining a 92% exam pass rate. The college also partners with Pivot Point, a global leader in beauty, barbering and wellness education, to provide students with industry-leading curriculum and training tools.

As Mecklenburg County continues to grow, demand for licensed beauty and wellness professionals remains strong across salons, spas, healthcare settings and independent businesses. The new facility strengthens Central Piedmont's ability to meet those workforce needs while providing residents access to high-quality services at affordable prices.

“The new building, and our expanded program offerings, create opportunity for our students,” Hill said. “They are turning their passion into professions, and our community is gaining access to services that improve quality of life. It's a powerful example of how education and community impact go hand in hand.”