Median Earnings (1yr)
$15,003
26th percentile (25th in SC)
Median Debt
$12,831
30% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.86
Manageable
Sample Size
335
Adequate data

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

Miller-Motte College-ConwayOther cosmetology programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Miller-Motte College-Conway graduates compare to all programs nationally

Miller-Motte College-Conway graduates earn $15k, placing them in the 26th percentile of all cosmetology certificate programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in South Carolina

Cosmetology certificate's programs at peer institutions in South Carolina (28 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Miller-Motte College-Conway$15,003$18,514$12,8310.86
Southeastern Esthetics Institute$21,547—$7,0290.33
Paul Mitchell the School-Greenville$19,583$20,755$13,8330.71
Paul Mitchell the School-Charleston$19,583$20,755$13,8330.71
Paul Mitchell the School-Columbia$19,583$20,755$13,8330.71
Academy of Hair Technology$19,459$19,648$7,8330.40
National Median$17,113—$9,8620.58

Other Cosmetology Programs in South Carolina

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across South Carolina schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Southeastern Esthetics Institute
Elgin
—$21,547$7,029
Paul Mitchell the School-Greenville
Greenville
—$19,583$13,833
Paul Mitchell the School-Charleston
North Charleston
—$19,583$13,833
Paul Mitchell the School-Columbia
West Columbia
—$19,583$13,833
Academy of Hair Technology
Greenville
—$19,459$7,833

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.