Cosmetology at Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Minneapolis
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
Analysis
Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Minneapolis stands out as a top performer nationally for cosmetology training, with graduates earning $24,230 in their first year—putting this program in the 95th percentile compared to similar programs across the country. That's substantially higher than the national median of $17,113, demonstrating the institute's strong reputation and industry connections deliver real value.
Within Minnesota's competitive cosmetology landscape, the program holds its own at the 60th percentile, though several in-state competitors like Saint Paul College achieve notably higher earnings. The debt load of $9,941 is reasonable and typical for the field, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41. More encouraging is the 32% earnings growth trajectory, with graduates reaching nearly $32,000 by year four—suggesting strong career progression potential.
For parents considering this investment, Aveda Minneapolis offers a compelling combination of national recognition and reasonable debt burden. While it may not be the highest-earning cosmetology program in Minnesota, its consistent performance above national standards and solid earnings growth make it a reliable choice for students serious about building a cosmetology career.
Where Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Minneapolis 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 Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Minneapolis graduates compare to all programs nationally
Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Minneapolis graduates earn $24k, placing them in the 95th 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 Minnesota
Cosmetology certificate's programs at peer institutions in Minnesota (17 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Minneapolis | $24,230 | $31,992 | $9,941 | 0.41 |
| Saint Paul College | $32,987 | $36,693 | $14,250 | 0.43 |
| Model College of Hair Design | $25,814 | $22,569 | $8,778 | 0.34 |
| Nova Academy of Cosmetology | $25,754 | $27,175 | $9,999 | 0.39 |
| Nova Academy of Cosmetology Woodbury | $24,617 | $28,029 | $10,194 | 0.41 |
| Minnesota State Community and Technical College | $24,367 | — | $10,169 | 0.42 |
| National Median | $17,113 | — | $9,862 | 0.58 |
Other Cosmetology Programs in Minnesota
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Minnesota schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saint Paul College Saint Paul | $6,318 | $32,987 | $14,250 |
| Model College of Hair Design Saint Cloud | — | $25,814 | $8,778 |
| Nova Academy of Cosmetology Rochester | — | $25,754 | $9,999 |
| Nova Academy of Cosmetology Woodbury WOODBURY | — | $24,617 | $10,194 |
| Minnesota State Community and Technical College Fergus Falls | $5,900 | $24,367 | $10,169 |
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 Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Minneapolis, approximately 24% 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 376 graduates with reported earnings and 408 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.