Academy of Professional Cosmetology
The SAU Tech Academy of Professional Cosmetology prepares students for licensure and careers in the beauty industry. Students learn and practice the full range of cosmetology services in a supervised salon setting that is open to the public. The program follows state board requirements and offers multiple credential options based on your career goals.
Programs & Career Paths
SAU Tech offers multiple credential options to match your goals. Each program includes classroom instruction and practical training in a supervised salon environment.
Cosmetology
Comprehensive training in hair, nails, skincare, and salon operations. Graduates are prepared for licensure and entry-level careers in full-service salons.
Esthetics Technology
Focuses on skin care, facials, waxing, makeup, and spa techniques. Includes both classroom learning and simulated salon experience.
Nail Technology
Covers natural and artificial nail care, sanitation, and preparation for the National Nail Technology Theory Exam.
Barbering
Offers hands-on, industry-focused training that prepares students for state licensure and long-term success in the barbering profession. This program also offers the opting to become a Barbering Instructor.
What You’ll Learn
Students receive structured instruction and practice in the following areas:
- Haircutting, styling, chemical texturing, and hair color
- Manicuring, pedicuring, and nail shaping
- Facials, makeup application, and basic skincare
- Braiding, extensions, and specialty styling techniques
- Infection control, salon safety, and sanitation standards
- Customer service, retail sales, and salon business operations
All services are performed using state-approved methods and tools, and students regularly work with real clients in the school’s on campus salon.
Program Goals
1. Students will be able to pass state board examinations.
2. Students will be able to perform skills in the areas of hair cutting, hair styling, hair coloring, skincare, make-up application, manicuring, and pedicuring.
3. Students will be able to specialize in hair cutting, hair styling, hair coloring, skincare, make-up application, manicuring, and pedicuring.
4. Students will be able to communicate effectively with colleagues, supervisors, and guests.
5. Students will be able to project professionalism.
6. Students will be able to perform basic analytical skills to be able to advise clients on total look concepts.
7. Students will be able to apply academic learning, technical information, and related matter to assure sound judgments, decisions, and procedures.
Program Outcomes
1. Demonstrate competency levels to qualify for the state license exam
2. Communicate effectively both verbally and non-verbally
3. Engage and take responsibility as active learners and critical thinkers
4. Demonstrate customer service skills, self-growth, and personal development
5. Perform salon business such as front desk operations, dispensary inventory, resume building and interviewing skills, and self-marketing
6. Perform hair care services for all types of hair including hair analysis, hair cutting, hair styling, hair coloring and lightening, permanent waving, and chemical relaxing
7. Perform natural nail services including manicuring and pedicuring
8. Perform basic skincare services including skin analysis, facials, makeup application, and superfluous hair removal
Public Salon Services
The on campus student salon is open to the public and allows students to gain supervised experience while providing professional services.
Salon Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Last check-in for chemical services: 1:30 PM
Class Schedules
Cosmetology Classes
- Monday–Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM or 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM
- Online coursework available Friday and Saturday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Cosmetology Instructor Program
- Wednesday–Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Faculty and Leadership
Meet Shelley Young, Dean of Allied Health
Meet Quinci DeLoach, Cosmetology Director and Instructor
Quincie DeLoach is a Cosmetology Program Director and Instructor at Southern Arkansas University Tech with more than 14 years of experience in education and the beauty industry. She holds an Associate Degree and is passionate about preparing students for successful careers through hands-on instruction, mentorship, and professional development.
Her areas of expertise include cosmetology education, salon operations, curriculum development, hair care, beauty business education, and student leadership. In addition to her role in higher education, Quincie is also a CHI/Farouk Systems Educator and Artist, where she shares industry knowledge, product education, and advanced beauty techniques. She also serves as a Consultant for The Academies of Central Arkansas, supporting career and technical education initiatives. She was honored with the Outstanding Faculty Award for the 2024-2025 academic year in recognition of her dedication to student success, leadership, and commitment in excellence and beauty industry.
Take the Next Steps in Cosmetology
- Apply for Admission to SAU Tech→
- Schedule a Campus or Salon Tour→
- Download the Required Background Check Form→
Please note: All applicants must complete a background check and meet Arkansas Licensure requirements.
Need help understanding certification options or scholarship applications? Our program advisors are here to support your goals every step of the way.
Get In Touch
Cosmetology
- Faculty: Akelia Tate, atate@sautech.edu, 870-574-4717
- Program Director/Instructor: Quincie DeLoach, qdeloach@sautech.edu
- Advisor: Vontisha Murphy, vmurphy@sautech.edu, 870-574-4585
- Dean: Shelley Young, syoung@sautech.edu, 870-574-4475
Contact SAU Tech Academy of Professional Cosmetology
Have questions? We’re here to help.
Whether you’re looking for more information, need help with the application process, or just want to talk to someone about your next steps, the SAU Tech team is ready to connect with you.
