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
Earnings Distribution
How IBMC College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| IBMC College | $22,822 | $23,563 | +3% |
| Aveda Institute-Denver | $26,636 | $29,440 | +11% |
| Tigi Hairdressing Academy-Colorado Springs | $21,501 | $26,021 | +21% |
| United Beauty College | $19,322 | $23,275 | +20% |
| Cheeks Beauty Academy | $20,746 | $22,347 | +8% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Colorado
Cosmetology certificate's programs at peer institutions in Colorado (28 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $15,320 | $22,822 | $23,563 | $9,832 | 0.43 | |
| — | $27,005 | $18,694 | $12,000 | 0.44 | |
| — | $26,636 | $29,440 | $12,000 | 0.45 | |
| — | $24,952 | $22,164 | $11,833 | 0.47 | |
| $4,930 | $22,997 | $22,311 | $9,500 | 0.41 | |
| $5,582 | $22,488 | — | $8,500 | 0.38 | |
| National Median | — | $17,113 | — | $9,862 | 0.58 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with cosmetology graduates
Skincare Specialists
Barbers
Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists
Manicurists and Pedicurists
Personal Service Managers, All Other
Fitness and Wellness Coordinators
Spa Managers
First-Line Supervisors of Personal Service Workers
Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance
Shampooers
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.