Cosmetology at Florida Career College-Miami

Graduates from this program start at just $13,395—about $3,300 below Florida's median for cosmetology programs and ranking in the bottom quarter statewide. While earnings do climb 32% to $17,641 by year four, you'd still be earning less than what graduates from Palm Beach State College or Florida State College at Jacksonville make in their first year out. The debt of $11,718 exceeds both the state and national medians for cosmetology programs, creating a particularly tight financial squeeze in those early years.

The concerning part is that even with solid earnings growth, this program underperforms compared to readily available alternatives across Florida. With 127 cosmetology programs in the state, there are clearly better options—many at public institutions that likely charge less and produce graduates earning $20,000-$30,000 annually. The 74% Pell grant rate suggests this program serves students who can least afford a slow financial start.

For a career field where licensing requirements are consistent across schools, paying above-average tuition for below-average outcomes doesn't make financial sense. Look at public technical colleges or state colleges offering cosmetology—they typically deliver better earnings potential at lower cost, getting your child to financial stability faster.