Cosmetology at Empire Beauty School-Malden

Empire Beauty School-Malden's cosmetology program delivers below-average earnings but with exceptionally manageable debt, creating a mixed value proposition. Graduates earn $15,679 in their first year—about $1,400 less than the Massachusetts median and $1,500 below the national average. However, the program's debt load of $13,583 is actually reasonable compared to many cosmetology schools, ranking in just the 16th percentile nationally for debt burden.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.87 means students can theoretically pay off their loans with less than one year's salary, which is quite favorable for a trade program. More encouraging is the 30% earnings growth trajectory, with graduates reaching $20,441 by year four—essentially matching state and national benchmarks as they gain experience. Among Massachusetts cosmetology programs, this ranks in the 40th percentile, meaning it's middle-of-the-pack within the state.

The reality is that several Massachusetts competitors offer significantly better starting salaries, with top programs like Catherine Hinds Institute producing graduates earning $10,000+ more annually. For families prioritizing lower debt over higher initial earnings, Empire Beauty-Malden offers a path into the beauty industry without crushing financial burden. However, if your child is committed to cosmetology, exploring higher-performing in-state options could provide better long-term financial outcomes despite potentially higher upfront costs.