Cosmetology at Mission Beauty Institute

Mission Beauty Institute graduates earn just $14,491 in their first year—about $2,000 below the Texas median for cosmetology programs and $2,600 below the national median. While Texas cosmetology programs generally lag behind the national average, this school sits at only the 40th percentile even within the state. Top Texas programs like Paul Mitchell-Austin and Champion Beauty College see graduates earning $26,000+, nearly double what Mission Beauty graduates make initially.

The debt burden here is actually moderate at $7,057, lower than both state and national medians. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49, graduates owe about half their first-year income, which is manageable for the beauty industry where earnings often grow as stylists build clientele. That said, the 70% Pell grant rate indicates this school primarily serves lower-income students who may struggle even with relatively modest debt if those earnings don't improve quickly.

The fundamental issue is whether $14,491 provides a livable wage in Mission, Texas while paying down loans and investing in the equipment and continuing education that cosmetology careers require. For families considering this program, it's worth exploring why this school's graduates earn significantly less than peers at other Texas institutions—whether it's local market conditions, placement support, or training quality—before committing.