Cosmetology at Academy of Career Training

Academy of Career Training keeps debt relatively low at $6,249, but graduates earn just $15,256 in their first year—about $1,500 below Florida's median for cosmetology programs and $2,400 below typical starting salaries for this field nationally. While the school ranks in the 40th percentile among Florida's 127 cosmetology programs, that still means six out of ten comparable programs in the state deliver better earnings outcomes. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41 looks manageable on paper, but the absolute earnings figure is the real concern here.

The gap between this program and Florida's top cosmetology schools is striking. Palm Beach State College graduates earn nearly $10,000 more in their first year, and several technical colleges in the state consistently produce earnings in the $22,000-$29,000 range. At $15,256 annually, your child would be earning barely above minimum wage for full-time work, which raises questions about whether the credential is opening doors to better-paying salon positions or specialized services that justify the training investment.

The low debt is this program's saving grace, but cosmetology training should lead to meaningfully better earning potential than entry-level retail or service work. Before committing, verify the program's job placement rates and compare them to nearby community colleges offering similar certificates—you might find better value and outcomes just a short drive away.