Cosmetology at Lyle's College of Beauty

Lyle's College of Beauty graduates start at just $11,556 annually—roughly one-third less than California's median for cosmetology programs and in the bottom 5% nationally. While earnings climb 53% by year four to reach $17,632, that still leaves graduates earning only about half of what cosmetology grads at San Jose City College or MTI College make in the same timeframe. Even among California's 130 cosmetology programs, this ranks only at the 25th percentile—meaning three-quarters of state programs deliver better outcomes.

The debt picture offers a slim silver lining: at $8,556, it's slightly below both the state median ($8,802) and national benchmark ($9,862). However, even modest debt becomes problematic when first-year earnings are this low. Parents should know that California cosmetology graduates can earn substantially more elsewhere—Bakersfield residents might look to programs in Fresno or even consider the state's top performers, where graduates earn $20,000-plus annually.

For families counting on this certificate to provide financial independence, the numbers don't support that outcome. Your child would likely need additional income sources or family support during those early years, and even the four-year mark doesn't show catch-up to what other programs deliver immediately after graduation.