Cosmetology at Cheeks Beauty Academy

Cheeks Beauty Academy delivers surprisingly strong outcomes for aspiring cosmetologists, particularly when measured against the broader industry. With graduates earning $20,746 in their first year—21% above the national median for cosmetology programs—this school outperforms 82% of similar programs nationwide. The modest debt load of $7,850 creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.38, meaning graduates typically owe less than five months of income.

Wyoming's limited cosmetology training landscape makes direct state comparisons less meaningful (only three programs exist), but Cheeks matches the state median while keeping debt substantially lower than the national average. The 8% earnings growth to $22,347 by year four suggests steady career progression, though absolute wages remain typical for the beauty industry. With 72% of students receiving Pell grants, the school serves predominantly working-class families seeking accessible vocational training.

For families evaluating beauty school options, this represents a solid entry point into cosmetology. The combination of below-average debt and above-average early earnings creates a manageable financial picture, especially compared to programs where students graduate owing $10,000 or more for similar first-year wages. Just understand that cosmetology careers typically top out in the low-to-mid twenties in annual earnings—this program prepares you well for that reality without drowning you in debt getting there.