Cosmetology at Academy of Hair Design-Pearl

Academy of Hair Design-Pearl graduates earn less initially than most cosmetology programs nationally, but the numbers tell a more encouraging story within Mississippi. At $19,545 after four years, graduates actually surpass the state median by $5,300—landing in the 60th percentile among Mississippi's 28 cosmetology schools. That 27% earnings growth from year one to year four is meaningful in a field where income often depends on building a client base over time.

The real advantage here is the relatively low debt load. At $7,800, students borrow about $2,000 less than typical Mississippi cosmetology graduates and significantly less than the national median. With first-year earnings covering the debt in roughly six months, the financial burden remains manageable even during the challenging early career period. The school serves a predominantly Pell-eligible population (73%), suggesting these lower debt levels matter considerably for students with limited family resources.

However, parents should recognize that even with modest debt, cosmetology salaries in Mississippi lag behind top programs in the state. Hinds Community College and Northwest Mississippi Community College graduates earn $17,000+ in their first year—nearly $2,000 more than this program's four-year mark. For families prioritizing higher earnings potential, those community college options deliver better outcomes with similar or lower costs. Academy of Hair Design-Pearl works best for students who need accessible training without excessive debt, particularly those planning to stay in the Pearl area where local client relationships can offset the earnings gap.