Cosmetology at Milan Institute-Las Vegas

Milan Institute-Las Vegas's cosmetology program delivers below-average outcomes that should give parents pause. With first-year earnings of just $13,386—well below both the national median ($17,113) and Nevada's median ($17,643)—graduates earn significantly less than peers from other programs. Among Nevada's 12 cosmetology schools, this program ranks in only the 25th percentile for earnings, meaning three-quarters of similar programs in the state produce better financial outcomes.

The debt picture adds to concerns. While the $7,917 median debt is lower than national and state averages, it still represents a problematic debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.59. More troubling, this program ranks in the 79th percentile nationally for debt levels, meaning most comparable programs saddle students with less debt. When you're earning just over $1,100 per month in your first year, even this "modest" debt burden becomes substantial.

The program does show 20% earnings growth over four years, but even after that improvement, graduates earn just $16,007—still thousands below what other Nevada programs deliver immediately after graduation. With top Nevada programs like International Academy of Style producing nearly double the first-year earnings, parents should seriously consider alternatives. This program's combination of weak earnings potential and relatively high debt makes it a poor investment compared to other options available in Nevada.