Human Services Career Cluster

Revised June 2024

The Human Services career cluster focuses on preparing individuals for employment in career pathways that relate to families and human needs, such as counseling and mental health services, family and community services, personal care services, and consumer services. This career cluster includes occupations ranging from community health workers to cosmetologists and nutritionists.

Regional Program of Study: Cosmetology and Personal Care Services

The Cosmetology and Personal Care Services program of study focuses on occupational and educational opportunities associated with providing beauty and personal care services. This program includes managing personal care facilities and coordinating or supervising personal service workers.

Secondary Courses for High School Credit

• Level 1: Principles of Cosmetology Design and Color Theory
• Level 2: No Level 2 course offered; current sequence completes endorsement requirements
• Level 3: Cosmetology I
• Level 4: Cosmetology II and Cosmetology II Lab

Work-Based Learning and Expanded Learning Opportunities

Work-Based Learning Activities

• Work part-time in a salon, spa, or barbershop
• Participate in an apprenticeship at a salon to become an apprentice stylist

Expanded Learning Opportunities

• Tour a salon, spa, or barbershop
• Participate in SkillsUSA

Example Postsecondary Opportunities

Apprenticeships

• Apprentice Stylist

Associate Degrees

• Cosmetology Operator
• Esthetics and Skin Care

Additional Stackable Licenses/Certifications

• Class A Barber
• Eyelash Extension Specialist
• Hair Weaving Specialist

Example Aligned Occupations

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists

• Median Wage: $27,286
• Annual Openings: 8,014
• 10-Year Growth: 25%

Skincare Specialists

• Median Wage: $35,112
• Annual Openings: 778
• 10-Year Growth: 38%

First-Line Supervisors of Personal Service Workers

• Median Wage: $36,795
• Annual Openings: 2,253
• 10-Year Growth: 29%

Aligned Industry-Based Certifications

• Barber Operator License
• Cosmetology Esthetician License
• Cosmetology Manicurist License
• Cosmetology Operator License

Additional Information

Successful completion of the Cosmetology and Personal Care Services program of study fulfills requirements of the Public Service endorsement.

Data Source: TexasWages, Texas Workforce Commission (Retrieved March 8, 2024)

https://tea.texas.gov/academics/college-career-and-military-prep/career-and-technical-education/programs-of-study