Cosmetology at Milan Institute of Cosmetology-Reno

This cosmetology program delivers below-average earnings while carrying above-average debt—a concerning combination that puts graduates at a financial disadvantage. With first-year earnings of $14,943, graduates earn about $2,700 less than the Nevada state median and $2,200 less than the national average for cosmetology programs. The program ranks in just the 25th percentile both nationally and within Nevada, meaning 75% of similar programs produce better-earning graduates.

The debt picture compounds these concerns. At $7,917, student debt sits in the 79th percentile nationally (meaning most programs saddle students with less debt), and while the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.53 isn't catastrophic, it's problematic given the low earning potential. Within Nevada alone, several schools significantly outperform Milan Institute—International Academy of Style graduates earn $26,349 in their first year, nearly double what Milan graduates make.

The modest 11% earnings growth over four years offers little hope for catching up, as graduates still earn only $16,646 by year four. For families considering this investment, the numbers suggest looking elsewhere. Other Nevada cosmetology programs offer substantially better earning potential for similar or lower debt loads, making this a poor financial choice in a state with clearly superior alternatives.