The largest technical school in the area, Texarkana College was founded in 1927 and is now a state-supported institution offering studies in traditional academic fields, occupational and technical programs, workforce development and community programs. Situated on a 90-acre campus, it is attended by more than 5,000 students. Unlike most technical schools, Texarkana College offers an intercollegiate athletic program in baseball, golf and softball and is part of the Region XIV Athletic Conference. Applications to Texarkana College are accepted year round -- applicants are required to provide a GED or diploma from an accredited high school or obtain individual approval for probationary admission from the Director of Admissions. High school students are eligible for early admission if they have completed 10th grade, have parental permission, and are recommended by their high school principal. Financial aid is available.
The School of Hair Design is a private for-profit institution offering certificate programs in cosmetology, beauty and related personal grooming arts including training for working in the salon industry, job counseling and motivational training for entrepreneurs. Counseling and information is available to students with less than a high school equivalency education. Certificates can be earned in less than one year. As of 2008, the School of Hair Design had a total enrollment of 49 students, primarily women. The school participates in Federal Title IV financial aid programs.
Career Academy is a private for-profit technical school training stylists, barbers, cosmetologists, nail technicians and other grooming specialists to teach in other accredited and licensed beauty schools. Certificate training includes courses in classroom management, learning methods, instructional planning, curricula development, cosmetology teaching principles, testing and student counseling. Certificates can be earned in less than two years. Career Academy's enrollment is fewer than 50 students.
Students who are willing to relocate might consider one of the fourteen technical schools located less than three hours west, in Dallas. Dallas technical schools offer degrees and certificates in fields such as culinary arts, automotive technology, court reporting, massage, pharmacy technician, dental hygiene, photography, interior design, computer support and criminal justice. Most Dallas schools welcome applicants with a high school diploma or GED, and offer financial aid.