Analysis
Moler-Pickens graduates outpace 80% of cosmetology programs in Ohio, earning $27,450 four years out—significantly above the state median of $17,110. While first-year earnings start modest at $21,650, the 27% jump to year four suggests graduates build clientele and advance more successfully than typical beauty school alumni. The $13,216 in debt sits above the state median, but with a 0.61 debt-to-earnings ratio, graduates can realistically manage repayment once they're established. Two-thirds of students receive Pell grants, indicating this school serves working-class Ohioans who often face limited alternatives.
The premium pricing becomes less concerning when you consider outcomes: Moler-Pickens ranks among the top five cosmetology programs in the state, and graduates earn substantially more than the national median of $17,113. Unlike many beauty schools where earnings plateau quickly, the steady income growth here suggests the training translates into durable skills that command better pay as stylists gain experience.
For families in the Cincinnati area, this represents one of the stronger cosmetology investments in Ohio. The debt is manageable, the earnings trajectory is positive, and graduates demonstrably outperform most competitors. If your child is committed to beauty industry work, this program's track record justifies the cost.
Where Moler-Pickens Beauty Academy Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all cosmetology certificate's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Moler-Pickens Beauty Academy 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moler-Pickens Beauty Academy | $21,650 | $27,450 | +27% |
| Aveda Fredric's Institute-Cincinnati | $22,160 | $28,714 | +30% |
| The Spa School | $20,256 | $26,524 | +31% |
| Creative Images Institute of Cosmetology-South Dayton | $16,806 | $24,029 | +43% |
| Creative Images Institute of Cosmetology-North Dayton | $16,806 | $24,029 | +43% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Cosmetology certificate's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (59 total in state)
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| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $21,650 | $27,450 | $13,216 | 0.61 | |
| $23,788 | $21,934 | $13,833 | 0.58 | |
| $22,672 | $22,840 | $12,000 | 0.53 | |
| $22,637 | $17,614 | $11,166 | 0.49 | |
| $22,160 | $28,714 | $9,833 | 0.44 | |
| $21,819 | $19,376 | $11,140 | 0.51 | |
| 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 Moler-Pickens Beauty Academy, approximately 66% 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 44 graduates with reported earnings and 47 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.