DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — Wallace Community College-Dothan says its cosmetology program has been named one of Ed Outlook’s Top 10 Cosmetology Schools for 2026.
The college announced the recognition Oct. 27. It said the program appears in the publication’s October cosmetology edition, with a feature on its hands-on training and preparation for careers.
“What happens in our classrooms goes far beyond learning a skill. It’s about building confidence, chasing dreams, and believing in students before they believe in themselves,” said Amanda Campbell, Wallace’s cosmetology instructor and division director.
According to Wallace, students can complete the program in three semesters. Classes cover hair cutting and styling, skin and nail care, sanitation and other skills used in salons.
Students begin working with clients during their second semester under instructors’ guidance. The college said they can also earn industry credentials in areas such as lash extensions and blowouts.
The program’s advisory council meets twice a year. Its members include salon owners, stylists, med-spa professionals and Wallace graduates who help instructors keep training in line with employers’ needs.
“Great instructors do more than teach technical skills; they mentor, inspire and prepare students for successful careers,” said Chris Kennedy, Wallace’s dean of workforce and career technical education.
Students also take before-and-after photos of their work and build digital portfolios to show their skills to potential employers.
The college’s release cited Campbell as saying students have achieved a 100% pass rate on the Alabama Board of Cosmetology practical exam. The release did not specify the period or number of students covered by that figure.
Wallace also highlighted graduate Colby Mac Chancey, who the college said found work before graduation and became a salon owner within three years of receiving her license. The release said she established The Modern Mane with fellow Wallace graduates Lana Harrison and Dianna Lewis.
The college said planned facility improvements will bring its cosmetology and aesthetics programs together in an updated space designed to resemble modern salons. The release did not give a cost or construction timeline.
More information about the program is available at wallace.edu.
