Cosmetology at Genesis Career College-Cookeville

Genesis Career College's cosmetology program produces graduates earning $16,552 in their first year—below both the Tennessee median ($17,506) and national average ($17,113). Among Tennessee's 47 cosmetology programs, this ranks in just the 40th percentile, meaning six out of ten programs in the state deliver better outcomes. The gap is substantial when compared to top Tennessee programs: graduates from Nashville's Salon Professional Academy earn $25,878, more than 50% higher, while several state technical colleges produce earnings in the low-$20,000s.

The $9,500 debt load is reasonable and slightly below state and national medians, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.57. Earnings do improve to $20,209 by year four—a 22% gain—which helps the long-term picture. However, even with this growth, graduates remain below what many peer programs deliver in year one. The high Pell grant percentage (83%) suggests the student body would particularly benefit from stronger earnings outcomes.

For families comparing cosmetology programs in Tennessee, this represents a below-average option. The debt is manageable, but when nearby programs consistently produce $5,000-$9,000 higher first-year earnings with similar debt levels, those alternatives offer meaningfully better return on investment. Tennessee families should explore the state's technical colleges and higher-performing beauty schools before committing here.