Western Piedmont Community College Announces Temporary Pause and Future Relaunch of Cosmetology

Western Piedmont Community College (WPCC) will temporarily pause its cosmetology program for the Fall 2026 semester. The program is scheduled to resume in Spring 2027 in a newly designed, state-of-the-art Cosmetology Education Center. The pause follows notification from the property owner that the current salon location must be vacated by August 31, 2026, after the owner and college could not reach mutually agreeable lease terms.

The temporary pause will enable the college to complete the transition of the cosmetology program to the college’s Jim Richardson Complex to enhance hands-on training and provide students with access to advanced equipment and industry-standard technology.

“We understand the importance of this program to our students and the community,” WPCC President Dr. Joel Welch said. “While we recognize that a pause may present short-term challenges, this transition allows us to significantly strengthen the learning experience and better prepare our students for successful careers in the cosmetology field.”

Current students will receive support and guidance to help them navigate the transition during this period. The college is committed to maintaining clear communication with prospective and enrolled students and will provide updates as plans progress.

The new Cosmetology Education Center, set to open in Spring 2027, will feature upgraded workstations, modern salon equipment, and enhanced instructional spaces designed to mirror real-world salon environments.

Prospective students interested in enrolling in the program are encouraged to begin their general education courses this fall to prepare for cosmetology courses beginning in spring. Additional information will be shared on the college’s website and through faculty and staff advisors in the coming months.

Published: 5/26/2026