Cosmetology at Casal Aveda Institute

Casal Aveda Institute graduates earn about $2,400 less than the typical Ohio cosmetology program graduate one year out, landing in the 40th percentile statewide. While earnings do grow 19% by year four—reaching $18,729—this still falls short of what many in-state competitors deliver right from the start. The top five Ohio cosmetology programs pay new graduates between $21,800 and $23,800, meaning their first-year earnings exceed Casal's four-year earnings.

The debt load of $10,667 is actually slightly below Ohio's median for cosmetology programs, and the 0.68 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe less than one year's salary. That's manageable compared to many certificate programs. With half of students qualifying for Pell grants, this is clearly serving working-class families who need affordable career training.

The fundamental question is whether the $2,400 annual earnings gap justifies choosing this program when stronger Ohio alternatives exist. For students tied to the Niles area, this could work—but anyone with geographic flexibility should compare outcomes at Columbus, Toledo, or Cincinnati locations where graduates routinely earn $4,000-8,000 more annually. In beauty careers where tips and repeat clientele drive income, starting with better baseline earnings matters considerably.