Analysis
Miller-Motte College-Conway's cosmetology program produces graduates earning significantly less than their peers across South Carolina. At $15,003 in the first year, graduates earn about $4,000 less than the state median of $18,956, landing in just the 25th percentile among SC cosmetology programs. This gap persists even after four years, when earnings reach $18,514—still below what typical graduates make immediately after finishing other programs in the state.
The debt picture offers some relief, with graduates owing $12,831 compared to higher amounts at many competitors. This creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.86, meaning graduates can theoretically pay off their loans with less than one year's salary. The 23% earnings growth from year one to year four also shows positive momentum, though it's not enough to close the gap with higher-performing programs.
For parents considering this investment, the numbers suggest looking elsewhere within South Carolina. Programs like Southeastern Esthetics Institute produce graduates earning $6,500 more in their first year, while multiple Paul Mitchell locations consistently generate nearly $20,000 in initial earnings—substantially better outcomes for a similar educational investment in the same field.
Where Miller-Motte College-Conway Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all cosmetology certificate's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Miller-Motte College-Conway graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miller-Motte College-Conway | $15,003 | $18,514 | +23% |
| Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology-Greenville | $18,693 | $21,453 | +15% |
| Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology-Rock Hill | $18,693 | $21,453 | +15% |
| Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology and Nails-Columbia | $18,956 | $21,033 | +11% |
| Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology-Spartanburg | $18,956 | $21,033 | +11% |
Compare to Similar Programs in South Carolina
Cosmetology certificate's programs at peer institutions in South Carolina (28 total in state)
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| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $15,003 | $18,514 | $12,831 | 0.86 | |
| $21,547 | — | $7,029 | 0.33 | |
| $19,583 | $20,755 | $13,833 | 0.71 | |
| $19,583 | $20,755 | $13,833 | 0.71 | |
| $19,583 | $20,755 | $13,833 | 0.71 | |
| $19,459 | $19,648 | $7,833 | 0.40 | |
| National Median | $17,113 | — | $9,862 | 0.58 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with cosmetology graduates
Skincare Specialists
Barbers
Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists
Manicurists and Pedicurists
Personal Service Managers, All Other
Fitness and Wellness Coordinators
Spa Managers
First-Line Supervisors of Personal Service Workers
Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance
Shampooers
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Miller-Motte College-Conway, approximately 53% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 335 graduates with reported earnings and 421 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.