Concorde Career College Accreditation and Expanding Your Opportunities with a Dual Hair and Skin Care Career

Understanding Concorde Career College Accreditation

When considering a career-focused education, one of the most important factors to evaluate is whether the institution is properly accredited. Accreditation ensures that a school meets established standards of quality and that its programs are recognized by employers and other educational institutions.

Concorde Career College is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) , which is officially recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a national accrediting agency [1] . This means that the majority of Concorde’s campuses and programs meet the required standards for curriculum, faculty, and student support. Additionally, the Concorde campuses in Memphis, Tennessee and Southaven, Mississippi are accredited by the Council of Occupational Education (COE), another recognized accrediting body [1] .

Prospective students can confirm a campus’s accreditation status by:

Visiting the official Concorde Career College website and navigating to the Accreditation FAQ page .
Checking the accrediting agencies’ websites: the ACCSC and the Council on Occupational Education .
Contacting the specific campus directly to request accreditation documentation.

It is important to note that, as with many large career college systems, some campuses may be under review or subject to additional scrutiny. For example, in early 2024, certain campuses were up for renewal of their accreditation and faced questions regarding compliance with ACCSC standards, such as student support and recruitment practices [2] . This does not mean accreditation has been revoked, but students should always verify the current status before enrolling.

In Colorado, Concorde Career College has been granted provisional authorization to offer its Bachelor of Science in Nursing, subject to ongoing compliance with state and accreditor requirements [3] . This demonstrates the College’s ongoing efforts to maintain educational quality and authorization at the state level.

For financial aid, transcript requests, and other resources, students can find additional guidance through the Concorde Career Colleges official resources page. The school’s financial aid team can assist with questions about funding, debt management, and creating a personalized plan for educational expenses [4] .

The Advantages of a Dual Hair and Skin Care Career

In today’s competitive beauty and wellness industry, professionals with multiple skill sets can enjoy greater flexibility, employability, and long-term growth. Pursuing a dual career in both hair and skin care-often through programs that combine cosmetology and esthetics training-provides a distinct advantage for those entering or advancing within the field.

1. Enhanced Employability and Versatility

Employers in salons, spas, and medispas seek candidates who can provide a range of services to meet diverse client needs. By holding qualifications in both hair and skin care, you can offer everything from haircuts and coloring to facials, waxing, and advanced skincare treatments. This versatility makes you a more attractive candidate for hiring managers and can increase your job security, as you are able to fill multiple roles within a business.

For example, a spa may prioritize hiring a professional who can both style hair and perform facials, allowing them to schedule more efficiently and serve clients with a broader range of services. Similarly, independent practitioners with dual licenses can market themselves to a wider audience, leading to higher earning potential and more consistent bookings.

2. Increased Earning Potential

Professionals with skills in both areas can command higher wages, charge premium rates for combined services, and take advantage of cross-selling opportunities. For instance, a client coming in for a haircut may be interested in a skincare consultation or treatment, and vice versa. Many salons and spas offer commission or bonus structures for employees who provide multiple services in a single appointment, further increasing your income prospects.

Entrepreneurs who open their own studios can diversify their menu of offerings, helping to stabilize revenue throughout seasonal fluctuations or changes in market demand.

3. Greater Career Flexibility and Mobility

With dual credentials, you can work in a wider range of settings, from full-service salons and luxury spas to dermatology clinics and wellness resorts. This flexibility allows you to adapt your career to changing interests, life circumstances, or geographic locations. For example, if you relocate to a new city, your ability to perform both hair and skin care services increases your chances of quickly finding employment in the beauty industry.

Additionally, dual training provides the foundational knowledge needed to pursue specialized certifications or advanced modalities, such as medical esthetics, trichology, or cosmetic laser treatments, further expanding your career options.

4. Entrepreneurial Opportunities

Owning a salon or spa, or operating as an independent contractor, becomes more feasible when you can offer a comprehensive suite of services. Many successful beauty professionals start with dual training, allowing them to build a loyal client base by meeting a broader range of needs. Whether you choose to rent a booth, operate a mobile business, or open your own establishment, your expanded skill set can be a key differentiator in a crowded market.

For those considering entrepreneurship, it is important to research state licensing requirements, as regulations regarding cosmetology and esthetics vary. You can typically find this information by searching for your state’s cosmetology board or department of professional regulation.

5. Professional Development and Lifelong Learning

Holding dual qualifications encourages ongoing professional development. As the beauty industry evolves with new products, technologies, and techniques, those with a broad educational background are better positioned to adapt and grow. Many continuing education courses are available in both hair and skin care, and professionals who invest in their skills can maintain relevance and satisfaction in their careers.

How to Pursue a Dual Hair and Skin Care Career

If you are interested in gaining dual qualifications, consider the following steps:

Research Accredited Programs: Look for schools that are accredited by recognized agencies such as the ACCSC or COE. Accreditation ensures that your credentials will be valued by employers and may be required for state licensure.
Verify State Licensing Requirements: Each state has different requirements for cosmetology and esthetics licenses. Visit your state’s official cosmetology board website for up-to-date information. For example, you can search for “[Your State] Board of Cosmetology” to find official resources.
Consider Program Structure: Some institutions offer combined programs, while others require separate coursework. Evaluate program length, cost, and scheduling flexibility to find the best fit for your needs.
Explore Financial Aid: Accredited career colleges like Concorde may offer guidance on financial aid options. You can contact Concorde’s financial aid office for personalized assistance or use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at the official U.S. government website.
Plan for Licensure Exams: Upon completion of your program(s), you will need to pass state board exams for both cosmetology and esthetics to practice legally. Many schools provide exam preparation as part of their curriculum.
Network and Seek Mentorship: Join professional associations, attend industry events, and connect with experienced practitioners to build your network and gain insights into your chosen career paths.

Challenges and Alternative Pathways

While pursuing dual training offers significant advantages, there are challenges to consider. Dual programs may require a greater investment of time and money. Balancing coursework and practical training in two fields can be demanding. However, some schools offer flexible schedules, evening classes, or hybrid learning options to accommodate working students or those with family responsibilities.

Alternative pathways include starting with one credential (such as cosmetology) and adding esthetics training later, or vice versa. Some states allow for apprenticeship models or credit transfer between programs, making it easier to build on your initial education over time. Financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement may be available to help offset costs-contact your school’s financial aid office or search for “beauty industry scholarships” through reputable organizations and educational foundations.

Key Takeaways

Concorde Career College is institutionally accredited by recognized agencies, and prospective students should always verify the status of their chosen campus or program before enrolling. Pursuing a dual career in hair and skin care provides significant benefits in employability, earnings, career flexibility, and entrepreneurial opportunities. By carefully researching accredited programs, understanding state requirements, and planning for ongoing education, you can position yourself for long-term success in the beauty industry.