The college launched the Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Beauty and Wellness in fall 2020. In partnership with Rolfs Salon, the degree is the first of its kind to help beauty professionals deliver innovative and intelligent client beauty experiences while enhancing their business management skills. The program trains already-licensed beauty professionals in finance, marketing and communication as well as organizational leadership, empowering them to expand their career opportunities.
The Beauty and Wellness program includes Mesa Community College’s first Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) offering. Licensed beauty professionals may receive up to 31 college credits, nearly half of their associate degree, at no cost by enrolling as an MCC student and submitting a PLA form for the Beauty and Wellness program.
Upon completing the associate's degree, graduates may follow a transfer pathway to Arizona State University to earn a Bachelor of Applied Science with a Personal Care Emphasis.
The 21 students who made up the first cohort of the Beauty and Wellness program received full scholarships from Rolf’s CEO Francis Tesmer. The group is on target to earn their AAS degrees in May of 2021.