Renovated Health Science Building to prepare next generation of healthcare and beauty professionals
NORWALK — Cerritos College has reopened its Health Science Building, a modernized facility that will prepare students for in-demand careers while setting new standards in sustainable campus design. Originally built in 1974, the Health Science Building houses the college’s cosmetology and health occupations programs.
The college marked the reopening with a grand celebration on August 20, featuring a ribbon-cutting and remarks from campus leadership. Students, faculty, staff, and community members toured the updated building, underscoring its role as a hub for training future healthcare and beauty professionals.
The updated facility supports the college’s programs in child development, cosmetology, dental assisting, dental hygiene, and physical therapy assistant. It also houses Cerritos College’s first-ever bachelor’s degree program in Dental Hygiene, launched in 2025, which expands opportunities for students to earn advanced credentials and meet workforce demand in high-paying healthcare fields. Modernized labs and classrooms reflect current industry standards, providing students with practical training that directly translates to careers across the region.
The renovation also underscores the college’s commitment to sustainability, officials said. Designed with energy-efficient features, solar panels, and heat island mitigation strategies, the building aims for LEED Silver certification. Upgrades include seismic retrofitting, improved accessibility, and eco-friendly materials. These features are projected to improve energy efficiency by 32 percent, reduce indoor water use by 25 percent, and cut outdoor water use by 50 percent, ensuring a healthier and more resilient learning environment.
“Our renovated Health Science Building would not be possible without the support of our community,” said Dr. Jose Fierro, President/Superintendent of Cerritos College. “This state-of-the-art facility provides students with the resources to gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the beauty and healthcare industries, while promoting sustainable practices. It reflects our commitment to career-focused education and addresses the growing demand for skilled workers.”
Through investments like the Health Science Building renovation, Cerritos College is expanding high-value programs that strengthen the regional workforce, open pathways to economic mobility for students and their families, and advance sustainability across the Southeast Los Angeles community.