Cosmetology at Empire Beauty School-Glen Burnie

Empire Beauty School-Glen Burnie delivers solid but unremarkable results for cosmetology training. While earnings start low at $16,429 in the first year—sitting at the 42nd percentile nationally—the program performs better within Maryland, ranking at the 60th percentile among state cosmetology programs. More importantly, the debt burden is exceptionally manageable at $13,583, placing this program in just the 16th percentile for debt nationally, meaning 84% of cosmetology programs saddle students with more debt.

The financial picture becomes more compelling over time. Earnings grow 21% by year four to nearly $20,000, and the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.83 means students typically earn back their full investment within the first year. However, Empire falls short of the top Maryland programs—Paul Mitchell partner schools and others generate starting salaries around $20,000-$21,000, suggesting stronger industry connections or training quality elsewhere.

For families considering cosmetology training, Empire offers a relatively low-risk entry point into the field. The combination of below-average debt and steady earnings growth makes this a financially sensible choice, even if it won't lead to the highest-paying salon positions immediately. Given that 59% of students receive Pell grants, this program successfully serves students from modest backgrounds without creating crushing debt burdens.