Cosmetology at Academy of Beauty Professionals

Academy of Beauty Professionals graduates earn above the national median for cosmetology programs, but trail significantly behind most Wisconsin cosmetology schools. At $18,729 in first-year earnings, graduates place in the 64th percentile nationally—a respectable showing against 1,500+ programs. However, they fall to just the 40th percentile among the state's 30 cosmetology programs, where the median earnings are nearly $3,000 higher. Top Wisconsin programs like Waukesha County Technical College and The Institute of Beauty and Wellness produce graduates earning $25,000+, about 35% more than Academy of Beauty Professionals.

The modest $9,962 debt load means graduates aren't financially burdened—it takes about six months of earnings to pay off, which is manageable on a cosmetologist's salary. The program also serves a substantial population of Pell Grant recipients (51%), providing access to vocational training for lower-income students. Earnings growth is minimal but positive, with the 5% increase from year one to year four at least moving in the right direction.

For Wisconsin families, this is a safe but unremarkable choice. Your child won't graduate with crushing debt, but they're likely to earn $5,000-8,000 less annually than graduates from higher-performing in-state programs. If Academy of Beauty Professionals offers specific advantages—location, schedule flexibility, or significantly lower total cost of attendance—those factors could justify the earnings difference. Otherwise, comparing programs like Waukesha County Technical College or nearby technical colleges would be worthwhile before enrolling.