Cosmetology at Miller-Motte College-Macon
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
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
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-Macon graduates compare to all programs nationally
Miller-Motte College-Macon 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 Georgia
Cosmetology certificate's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (45 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miller-Motte College-Macon | $15,003 | $18,514 | $12,831 | 0.86 |
| Lanier Technical College | $22,686 | $23,453 | — | — |
| Atlanta School of Massage | $20,792 | — | $11,555 | 0.56 |
| International School of Skin Nailcare & Massage Therapy | $20,551 | $19,533 | $9,398 | 0.46 |
| South Georgia Technical College | $20,501 | — | — | — |
| Wiregrass Georgia Technical College | $19,659 | $17,642 | — | — |
| National Median | $17,113 | — | $9,862 | 0.58 |
Other Cosmetology Programs in Georgia
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Georgia schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lanier Technical College Gainesville | $3,716 | $22,686 | — |
| Atlanta School of Massage Atlanta | — | $20,792 | $11,555 |
| International School of Skin Nailcare & Massage Therapy Sandy Springs | — | $20,551 | $9,398 |
| South Georgia Technical College Americus | $3,782 | $20,501 | — |
| Wiregrass Georgia Technical College Valdosta | $3,212 | $19,659 | — |
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.