Analysis
Miller-Motte College-Macon's cosmetology program produces graduates who earn less than both national and state averages, with first-year earnings of $15,003 falling $2,000 below the Georgia median of $16,832. While the program ranks in the 40th percentile among Georgia schools—meaning it's roughly middle-of-the-pack statewide—it significantly underperforms compared to the state's top technical colleges, where graduates can earn $20,000+ right out of school.
The financial picture shows both strengths and weaknesses. At $12,831 in median debt, students borrow exactly the state average but $3,000 more than the national median. However, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.86 is manageable, and the program shows solid 23% earnings growth over four years, reaching $18,514 by year four. With 84% of students receiving Pell grants, this serves a predominantly low-income population who may have limited alternatives.
For parents weighing options, this program offers adequate preparation for the cosmetology field without excessive debt, but Georgia has demonstrably stronger alternatives. Schools like Lanier Technical College produce graduates earning 50% more in their first year. If your child is set on cosmetology and location is flexible, exploring the state's technical college system could yield significantly better financial outcomes.
Where Miller-Motte College-Macon Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all cosmetology certificate's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Miller-Motte College-Macon 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-Macon | $15,003 | $18,514 | +23% |
| Gwinnett Technical College | $18,291 | $28,112 | +54% |
| Columbus Technical College | $19,094 | $27,211 | +43% |
| Elaine Sterling Institute | $15,263 | $24,675 | +62% |
| Keune Academy by 124 | $19,319 | $24,558 | +27% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia
Cosmetology certificate's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (45 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | $15,003 | $18,514 | $12,831 | 0.86 | |
| $3,716 | $22,686 | $23,453 | — | — | |
| — | $20,792 | — | $11,555 | 0.56 | |
| — | $20,551 | $19,533 | $9,398 | 0.46 | |
| $3,782 | $20,501 | — | — | — | |
| $3,212 | $19,659 | $17,642 | — | — | |
| 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-Macon, approximately 84% 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.