Cosmetology at IBMC College
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
Analysis
IBMC College's cosmetology program outperforms 95% of similar programs nationwide—a remarkable achievement in a field where most graduates struggle to reach $20,000 annually. With first-year earnings of $22,822 and debt under $10,000, graduates here earn roughly $5,700 more than the typical cosmetology certificate holder while taking on essentially average debt. That 0.43 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe less than half their first-year salary, easily manageable in this profession.
The Colorado context adds nuance: while this program excels nationally, it ranks in the middle of the pack within the state, where several programs crack $25,000 in first-year earnings. The $20,014 state median suggests Colorado's cosmetology market is stronger overall, and IBMC sits comfortably above that benchmark but below the top-tier programs in Westminster and Denver. With 81% of students receiving Pell grants, IBMC serves a predominantly low-income population, making its solid outcomes particularly meaningful.
For families considering cosmetology training, IBMC represents a safe, proven option that delivers better-than-average results without excessive debt. Your child won't reach beautician riches here—earnings growth is modest—but they'll enter the workforce earning more than most peers nationally while keeping debt manageable. If staying in Fort Collins matters more than chasing an extra $3,000-$4,000 annually, this program works.
Where IBMC College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all cosmetology certificate's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How IBMC College graduates compare to all programs nationally
IBMC College graduates earn $23k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all cosmetology certificate programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Colorado
Cosmetology certificate's programs at peer institutions in Colorado (28 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IBMC College | $22,822 | $23,563 | $9,832 | 0.43 |
| Elevate Salon Institute-Westminster | $27,005 | $18,694 | $12,000 | 0.44 |
| Aveda Institute-Denver | $26,636 | $29,440 | $12,000 | 0.45 |
| Paul Mitchell the School-Denver | $24,952 | $22,164 | $11,833 | 0.47 |
| Pickens Technical College | $22,997 | $22,311 | $9,500 | 0.41 |
| Northeastern Junior College | $22,488 | — | $8,500 | 0.38 |
| National Median | $17,113 | — | $9,862 | 0.58 |
Other Cosmetology Programs in Colorado
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Colorado schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elevate Salon Institute-Westminster Westminster | — | $27,005 | $12,000 |
| Aveda Institute-Denver Denver | — | $26,636 | $12,000 |
| Paul Mitchell the School-Denver Lakewood | — | $24,952 | $11,833 |
| Pickens Technical College Aurora | $4,930 | $22,997 | $9,500 |
| Northeastern Junior College Sterling | $5,582 | $22,488 | $8,500 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At IBMC College, approximately 81% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.