Cosmetology at Austin's Beauty College Inc

Austin's Beauty College graduates are earning substantially more than most cosmetology certificate holders—$20,977 puts them in the 84th percentile nationally, well above the typical $17,113. That's the good news for a predominantly working-class student body (77% receive Pell grants). However, Tennessee has a competitive cosmetology training market, and this program sits at just the 60th percentile within the state. Several nearby schools place graduates earning $22,000-$26,000, suggesting better outcomes are available without leaving the region.

The debt picture is manageable at $9,833, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.47—reasonable for a quick-turnaround certificate program. Graduates should be able to handle these payments on beauty industry wages, especially since many will supplement base earnings with tips and commission.

For families evaluating Tennessee cosmetology schools, Austin's Beauty College represents a solid mid-tier option that outperforms national averages but doesn't crack the state's top programs. If location in Clarksville works for your family, it's a functional choice. But if commuting to Nashville or Murfreesboro is feasible, exploring those higher-earning options could mean an extra $1,000-$5,000 annually—meaningful money in this field.