Cosmetology at Midwest Technical Institute-Missouri

Graduates from Midwest Technical Institute's cosmetology program earn $17,474 four years out—about $3,400 less than the Missouri median for cosmetology programs. That 25th percentile ranking within Missouri is significant: three-quarters of cosmetology schools in the state produce better earnings outcomes. When you can attend programs in Kansas City or St. Charles where graduates earn $27,000 to $23,000, the question becomes whether staying in Springfield is worth a $6,000-10,000 annual earnings gap.

The debt load of $13,038 exceeds both state and national norms for cosmetology programs (which typically run around $9,800), though it's not catastrophic. With first-year earnings at $15,576, students spend about 84% of their initial annual income covering the degree cost—manageable but tight in an industry where wages start low. The 60% Pell grant rate indicates this program serves many students with limited financial resources, making every dollar of that earnings difference matter more.

The fundamental challenge here is paying above-average debt for below-average results in a field where Missouri offers demonstrably stronger alternatives. If relocating to Kansas City or the St. Charles area isn't feasible, this program provides entry to cosmetology careers, but families should understand they're accepting a significant earnings tradeoff for geographic convenience.