Cosmetology at Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology-Rock Hill

Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology-Rock Hill graduates earn above the national average but trail their South Carolina peers—a significant finding since most cosmetology students stay local after completing their training. While first-year earnings of $18,693 surpass the national median by nearly $1,600, they fall short of SC's median by roughly $300. More notably, this places the program in just the 40th percentile statewide, meaning six out of ten cosmetology programs in South Carolina deliver better initial earnings. The gap widens when comparing to top-performing SC schools, where graduates can earn $2,000-$3,000 more annually.

The program does show two strengths: manageable debt at $10,429 (below the state average) and solid 15% earnings growth over four years, reaching $21,453. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.56 means graduates need roughly half a year's income to cover their educational investment—reasonable for a certificate program. With two-thirds of students receiving Pell grants, the school clearly serves working-class families seeking accessible career training.

For parents evaluating this investment, the key question is geographic flexibility. If your child plans to work in the Rock Hill area specifically and values the school's affordability, this program delivers adequate preparation at a fair price. But if they're willing to commute to nearby cities or consider other SC programs, several schools offer meaningfully better earning potential for similar or even lower debt loads.