Cosmetology at Guilford Technical Community College

The critical number here is earnings growth: graduates start at just $17,193 but reach $25,271 within four years—a 47% increase that suggests this program provides solid technical training that compounds with experience. That trajectory matters in cosmetology, where building a client base takes time. Among North Carolina's 75 cosmetology programs, GTCC ranks right at the state median for starting earnings while maintaining debt that's actually below the state average ($16,000 vs. $12,999 statewide).

The debt load deserves attention, though. While $16,000 sits in the 5th percentile nationally—meaning 95% of cosmetology programs nationwide carry more debt—it still represents nearly a full year's starting salary. That's manageable if you're committed to the field and willing to hustle through those early years, but it's a real burden if you discover mid-program that salon work isn't for you. The small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could swing significantly year to year.

For parents of a student genuinely passionate about cosmetology, this program offers reasonable value at a community college price point. But recognize that reaching that four-year earning figure likely requires establishing your own clientele, potentially working irregular hours, and possibly supplementing with side work. If your student is on the fence about the beauty industry, the debt makes this a risky test run.