Cosmetology at Bellus Academy

Bellus Academy's cosmetology program sits in the bottom half of Kansas schools, with first-year earnings of $17,745—about $2,700 below the state median of $20,465. At the 40th percentile statewide, graduates here earn less than most Kansas cosmetology programs, including nearby community colleges and trade schools that deliver stronger immediate returns.

However, the debt picture offers some relief. At $9,833, student loans are manageable and align closely with both national and state averages. The 0.55 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe roughly half their first-year income—reasonable for a field where many professionals build clientele gradually. The 25% earnings growth over four years is also encouraging, bringing median pay to $22,229, which approaches what top Kansas programs deliver initially.

For parents considering this investment, the key question is location and career goals. If your child plans to work in Manhattan or smaller Kansas communities where living costs are lower, these earnings may stretch further than in major metro areas. But if they're willing to relocate for training, several Kansas schools offer better starting salaries that could justify any additional costs. This program works best for students who value the local connection and can afford to build their earnings gradually rather than those needing strong immediate returns.