Cosmetology at LeGrand Institute of Cosmetology Inc

LeGrand Institute graduates earn nearly $7,000 less annually than the typical South Carolina cosmetology program graduate—ranking in just the 10th percentile statewide. At $14,699 four years out, these earnings fall short of the state median by over 22%, and they're roughly $5,000 below what graduates from top programs like Southeastern Esthetics Institute or the Paul Mitchell schools typically make. For a program serving predominantly low-income students (69% receive Pell grants), these numbers create a difficult financial start, even though the $9,000 debt load is modest.

The small graduating class size (under 30 students) means individual circumstances heavily influence these figures, so results could vary significantly year to year. Still, even the 18% earnings growth from year one to year four doesn't close the gap with competitors. When monthly take-home pay barely covers basic expenses, that $9,000 debt becomes harder to manage than the numbers suggest.

If your child is considering cosmetology school in South Carolina, examine the Paul Mitchell programs or Southeastern Esthetics Institute first. They deliver similar training with substantially better employment outcomes, suggesting stronger industry connections or job placement support that could make a meaningful difference in your child's early career trajectory.