Cosmetology at Bene's Career Academy

Bene's Career Academy graduates earn about $15,300 in their first year—significantly below both Florida's state median of $16,718 and the national average of $17,113 for cosmetology programs. Among Florida's 127 cosmetology schools, this program sits at the 40th percentile, meaning roughly 60% of comparable state programs produce better outcomes. The gap becomes stark when you look at Florida's top performers: state college programs are generating nearly double these earnings, with graduates at Florida State College at Jacksonville earning almost $30,000 annually.

The debt load of $11,666 is moderate in absolute terms—representing about nine months of first-year earnings—but it's still above both state and national medians for cosmetology programs. Combined with below-average earnings, students here face a tougher financial start than at most alternatives. The modest 6% earnings growth over four years suggests wages remain relatively flat in the low-to-mid teens, which is typical for the field but doesn't help offset the initial debt burden.

For families considering cosmetology training in Florida, this program represents a below-average investment. With dozens of community colleges and technical schools across the state offering stronger outcomes at similar or lower cost, there's little reason to settle for 40th percentile performance—especially when top-quartile programs could potentially double your child's earning power in the same career field.