Cosmetology at Avalon Institute-Phoenix
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
Analysis
Avalon Institute-Phoenix delivers impressive value in cosmetology training, ranking in the 88th percentile nationally for graduate earnings while keeping debt manageable. With first-year earnings of $21,496—significantly above the national median of $17,113—graduates here earn about $4,400 more annually than typical cosmetology program alumni. The debt load of $8,081 is also below both national and Arizona averages, creating a healthy debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38.
Within Arizona, this program performs solidly at the 60th percentile, though it trails some premium competitors like Southwest Institute of Healing Arts ($26,795) and the Aveda institutes ($23,086). However, when you factor in the lower debt burden, Avalon offers a compelling middle ground. The 12% earnings growth from year one to year four shows graduates can build their careers effectively, and with 65% of students receiving Pell grants, the program serves a diverse student body successfully.
For parents concerned about return on investment, this program delivers strong fundamentals: above-average earnings potential, below-average debt, and solid career progression in a stable field. While not the highest-earning cosmetology program in Arizona, it represents excellent value for students seeking professional training without excessive financial risk.
Where Avalon Institute-Phoenix Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all cosmetology certificate's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Avalon Institute-Phoenix graduates compare to all programs nationally
Avalon Institute-Phoenix graduates earn $21k, placing them in the 88th percentile of all cosmetology certificate programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Arizona
Cosmetology certificate's programs at peer institutions in Arizona (24 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avalon Institute-Phoenix | $21,496 | $24,140 | $8,081 | 0.38 |
| Southwest Institute of Healing Arts | $26,795 | $22,250 | $9,500 | 0.35 |
| Penrose Academy | $23,700 | $31,518 | $8,043 | 0.34 |
| Aveda Institute-Tucson | $23,086 | $26,437 | $10,555 | 0.46 |
| Aveda Institute-Phoenix | $23,086 | $26,437 | $10,555 | 0.46 |
| International Barber College | $22,925 | — | $16,500 | 0.72 |
| National Median | $17,113 | — | $9,862 | 0.58 |
Other Cosmetology Programs in Arizona
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Arizona schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest Institute of Healing Arts Tempe | — | $26,795 | $9,500 |
| Penrose Academy Scottsdale | — | $23,700 | $8,043 |
| Aveda Institute-Tucson Tucson | — | $23,086 | $10,555 |
| Aveda Institute-Phoenix Tempe | — | $23,086 | $10,555 |
| International Barber College Chandler | — | $22,925 | $16,500 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Avalon Institute-Phoenix, approximately 65% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 748 graduates with reported earnings and 875 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.