OUR mission
Founded in 1978, the University of Spa & Cosmetology Arts (USCA) offers you a state-of-the-art learning environment with fully equipped classrooms and superior teachers. Our students learn in an atmosphere of professionalism and graduate knowing they have been trained to meet the highest standards of their profession. Over the years we have graduated more than 3,000 students. Some of these students are working in Springfield and the surrounding areas; others are working in places as far away as Canada and New Zealand.
The mission of USCA is to provide our students with the knowledge and training necessary for their chosen program of cosmetology, classic barbering, esthiology, nail technology or teaching. By learning in an atmosphere of professionalism and excellence, USCA students will build a foundation to help prepare them for a successful and satisfying career. We also strive to teach teamwork and respect as well as emphasize the need for continued personal and professional growth in order to meet the highest standards of their profession.
FACILITY & equipment
USCA is located in a facility that was designed to promote learning and practice of professional skills, in Springfield’s very busy west side, near Veterans Parkway and Wabash Avenue. Our students have the advantage of spacious, professionally designed clinic areas and quiet classrooms, with the latest equipment for all areas of study.
The student equipment and textbooks are up-to-date, and provide the student with everything they will need for their course of study. The usual class size averages 22 students per teacher. Free parking is provided for students and clients. USCA is equipped with surveillance equipment to protect the property belonging to USCA. It is not a monitoring device for a student’s personal property. Requests to review video tapes will be honored to aid in police investigations or a required court subpoena.
ACCREDITATION & memberships
USCA is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS), a nationally recognized agency for private cosmetology schools. NACCAS is located at 3015 Colvin St., Alexandria VA 22314 (phone 703.600.7600).
USCA is approved by the Department of Education for participation in federal Title IV student financial aid programs, including Pell Grant and Federal Direct Loans. USCA is licensed by the Illinois Department of Professional Regulation to operate as a cosmetology school offering cosmetology, classic barbering, esthiology and nail education. This license was first issued in 1931 and was transferred to the present owners in 1978. The Illinois Dept. of Professional Regulation is located at 320 W. Washington, Springfield, IL 62786 (phone 217.785.0820) and also in Chicago.
USCA is a member of Illinois Association of Cosmetology Schools (IACS), American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS), National Association of School Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA), and Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce.
STUDENT activities
Student activities include social events, charity fundraisers, community involvement, field trips and guest artists. USCA celebrates Constitution Day on or near September 17 of each year. For more information visit constitutionday.com.
SALON affiliation
The owners of USCA also own full-service salons (BJ Grand Salon & Spa) in the Illinois city of Springfield at two locations. The owners also sponsor advanced educational programs throughout the area and are approved sponsors of continuing education for the cosmetology profession.
ENROLLMENT procedures
Are you ready to begin? If you are interested in enrolling or in visiting the school before you make your decision, you should call 217.753.8990 and arrange a visit. An interview with the school’s admissions and financial aid counselor is recommended. Submit your enrollment application and you will be contacted so a visit can be arranged.
