Cosmetology at John Jay Beauty College
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
Analysis
John Jay Beauty College graduates earn about $4,300 more than the typical Louisiana cosmetology program graduate—a meaningful advantage in a field where every dollar counts. Ranking in the 60th percentile statewide, this program outperforms roughly two-thirds of the 43 cosmetology schools across Louisiana, while keeping debt nearly $5,000 below the state average. The 14% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests graduates build their client base and skills over time, a positive trajectory for a trade built on reputation and repeat business.
The $8,093 in debt translates to manageable monthly payments—roughly $90 per month on a standard ten-year plan—though it's worth noting graduates start at just over minimum wage equivalent earnings. With 58% of students receiving Pell grants, John Jay serves a population where even moderate debt requires careful budgeting. The earnings here won't create financial cushion quickly, but they compare favorably to in-state alternatives like Pineville Beauty School or My Le's Beauty College.
For Louisiana families considering cosmetology training, this program delivers above-average results at below-average cost within the state. The real limitation is the field itself: even top performers in Louisiana barely crack $20,000 four years out. If your child is committed to beauty services, John Jay positions them competitively without the debt burden that plagues many cosmetology graduates.
Where John Jay Beauty 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 John Jay Beauty College graduates compare to all programs nationally
John Jay Beauty College graduates earn $17k, placing them in the 53th 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 Louisiana
Cosmetology certificate's programs at peer institutions in Louisiana (43 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| John Jay Beauty College | $17,493 | $19,916 | $8,093 | 0.46 |
| VH Barber & Styling Academy | $19,545 | — | $16,500 | 0.84 |
| Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute-Covington | $18,605 | $23,872 | $9,833 | 0.53 |
| Pineville Beauty School | $18,093 | — | — | — |
| My Le's Beauty College | $17,980 | $15,647 | $9,000 | 0.50 |
| Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute-Baton Rouge | $17,929 | $18,058 | $13,272 | 0.74 |
| National Median | $17,113 | — | $9,862 | 0.58 |
Other Cosmetology Programs in Louisiana
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Louisiana schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| VH Barber & Styling Academy Bossier City | — | $19,545 | $16,500 |
| Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute-Covington Covington | — | $18,605 | $9,833 |
| Pineville Beauty School Pineville | — | $18,093 | — |
| My Le's Beauty College Gretna | — | $17,980 | $9,000 |
| Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute-Baton Rouge Baton Rouge | — | $17,929 | $13,272 |
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 John Jay Beauty College, approximately 58% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 68 graduates with reported earnings and 38 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.