Cosmetology at Academy of Hair Design-Grenada

Academy of Hair Design-Grenada graduates earn $13,348 in their first year—below both Mississippi's median ($14,236) and the national average ($17,113) for cosmetology programs. More concerning, this places them in just the 17th percentile nationally, meaning 83% of similar programs produce better outcomes. Even within Mississippi's 28 cosmetology schools, this ranks only at the 40th percentile, trailing significantly behind programs like Hinds Community College ($17,704) and Northwest Mississippi Community College ($17,660) that deliver 30% higher starting earnings.

The modest debt load of $10,005 initially seems manageable, but with first-year earnings barely above minimum wage levels, the 0.75 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates face nearly a year's income in debt for credentials that aren't translating to competitive salon positions. While earnings do grow 22% by year four to $16,239, that trajectory still lags behind what graduates from top Mississippi programs earn in their first year. With 77% of students receiving Pell grants, this financially vulnerable population deserves stronger employment outcomes for their investment.

For families considering cosmetology training in Mississippi, the data suggests looking elsewhere. Programs at community colleges like Hinds, Northwest Mississippi, or Meridian consistently deliver $4,000+ more in starting earnings—a substantial difference when working with entry-level service industry wages.