Cosmetology at Crevier's Academy of Cosmetology Arts

Crevier's graduates earn slightly above the national median at $19,079 in year one, but that's actually middle-of-the-pack for Montana—ranking in the 40th percentile among the state's four cosmetology schools. More importantly, earnings drop 18% by year four to just $15,706, suggesting graduates may struggle to build sustainable careers or advance beyond entry-level wages. For context, the top-performing Montana program (Academy of Cosmetology Inc) yields starting salaries $2,800 higher, while another in-state option (Butte Academy of Beauty Culture) produces similar outcomes at half the debt load.

The $9,833 debt is manageable compared to many career programs, but with first-year earnings under $20,000, graduates are still dedicating half a year's income to debt repayment. The concerning trajectory here isn't the starting point—it's where graduates end up four years later, earning less than when they started. This pattern suggests either limited career advancement opportunities or graduates leaving the field altogether.

If your child is committed to cosmetology in Montana, the Academy of Cosmetology Inc offers better earning potential at similar debt levels. Crevier's isn't a terrible choice—it beats national averages—but within Montana's small market, there are clearly stronger options that position graduates for more stable long-term earnings.