Cosmetology at Avi Career Training

Avi Career Training's cosmetology program produces graduates earning below-average incomes while carrying relatively low debt—a tradeoff that creates a narrow but navigable financial path. First-year earnings of $15,607 land in the bottom quarter among Virginia's 27 cosmetology programs, trailing the state median by $3,600 and falling well below top performers like The Esthetic Institute ($29,301). However, the modest $6,333 debt load—less than half the state median—means graduates can manage payments even on entry-level beauty industry wages.

The encouraging news is meaningful earnings growth: incomes jump 40% to $21,765 by year four, suggesting graduates who stick with the field can approach competitive wages. This trajectory matters in cosmetology, where building a client base takes time. Still, even after four years, earnings remain below what many Virginia programs deliver in year one. For students certain about committing to cosmetology long-term and willing to hustle through lean early years, the low debt creates margin for error. But families hoping for quicker financial stability should recognize this path requires patience and likely additional training or specialization to reach stronger earning potential. The program serves its high proportion of Pell Grant recipients (43%) by keeping debt manageable, but it's not positioning graduates for standout incomes in Virginia's competitive beauty services market.