Cosmetology at Milan Institute-Bakersfield

This Milan Institute-Bakersfield cosmetology program delivers earnings that significantly underperform national expectations, with first-year graduates earning just $13,386 compared to the national median of $17,113. While the program performs at the 40th percentile within California—suggesting it's roughly average for the state—this highlights that California cosmetology programs generally struggle compared to national standards. The debt load of $7,917 is actually lower than both state and national medians, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.59.

The earnings trajectory shows promise with 20% growth from year one to year four, reaching $16,007. However, even this improved figure falls well short of top California programs like The Salon Professional Academy-San Jose, where graduates earn $24,660. The high percentage of Pell grant recipients (68%) indicates this program serves lower-income students, which may partially explain the earnings gap but doesn't change the financial reality.

For parents weighing this investment, the lower debt burden is positive, but the earnings potential is concerning. Your child would likely earn less than $17,000 annually in their first year after graduation—wages that may struggle to support independent living in California's expensive market. Consider exploring higher-performing cosmetology programs within the state that could provide better long-term earning potential.