Cosmetology at Northwest College-Beaverton

Northwest College-Beaverton's cosmetology program delivers exactly what you'd expect from a mid-tier beauty school—solid but unremarkable outcomes that mirror both state and national averages. At $18,371 in first-year earnings, graduates earn precisely the Oregon median for cosmetology programs, ranking in the 60th percentile both statewide and nationally. The $10,743 debt load is manageable, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.58 that's better than many certificate programs.

The program's strength lies in its steady earnings growth, with graduates seeing a 24% increase to $22,752 by year four. However, Oregon's cosmetology market shows clear performance tiers, and this program sits in the middle pack. Summit Salon Academy in Portland produces graduates earning $8,700 more in their first year, while even nearby competitors like Phagans schools outperform by $1,000-2,000 annually.

For families considering cosmetology training, this represents a safe, middle-of-the-road choice with reasonable debt and steady income potential. The 52% Pell Grant recipient rate suggests the school serves working-class students well. While it won't provide the premium outcomes of Portland's top beauty schools, it offers a practical path into the beauty industry without excessive debt risk.