Cosmetology at Artistic Academy of Hair Design

Artistic Academy manages to keep debt remarkably low—$5,500 puts graduates among the lightest-burdened cosmetology students in the country—but first-year earnings lag significantly at just $17,274. What makes this program worth considering is the trajectory: graduates see 57% income growth by year four, reaching $27,036, which ranks in the 60th percentile among New Jersey cosmetology programs. That four-year figure eclipses every top program in the state, suggesting graduates who stick with the field build valuable skills and clientele over time.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32 means graduates owe about four months of first-year income, easily manageable even on entry-level salon wages. However, that initial $17,274 will be tight—you're looking at roughly $1,440 monthly before taxes in year one. The stronger four-year earnings indicate this is a field where persistence and building a client base matters more than your starting position. Among 24 New Jersey schools, landing in the 60th percentile by year four with minimal debt is a solid outcome.

For families comfortable with a slower financial start in exchange for low debt and strong growth potential, this program makes sense. Just ensure your child understands they'll need to hustle through lean early years to reach those higher earnings that successful graduates eventually achieve.