Median Earnings (1yr)
$20,500
79th percentile
60th percentile in Texas
Median Debt
$9,833
At national median

Analysis

Paul Mitchell the School-Dallas delivers solid earnings performance for cosmetology graduates, with first-year earnings of $20,500 that significantly outpace both national ($17,113) and Texas state medians ($16,412). This program ranks in the 79th percentile nationally and 60th percentile within Texas, meaning graduates typically earn more than most cosmetology program alumni across the country, though there are stronger performers within the state.

The debt picture is reasonable at $9,833, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.48—meaning graduates owe less than half their first-year salary. This debt level sits right at national and state medians, so you're not paying a premium for the better earnings outcomes. The 16% earnings growth over four years shows decent career progression potential, with graduates reaching nearly $24,000 by year four.

While this program performs well overall, it's worth noting that several other Texas cosmetology schools produce graduates earning $26,000+ in their first year—about $6,000 more annually. However, those programs may come with higher costs or different requirements. For families seeking a cosmetology program that delivers above-average earnings without excessive debt, Paul Mitchell-Dallas represents a solid, lower-risk choice that should provide a reasonable return on investment.

Where Paul Mitchell the School-Dallas Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all cosmetology certificate's programs nationally

Earnings Distribution

How Paul Mitchell the School-Dallas graduates compare to all programs nationally

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

School1 Year4 YearsGrowth
Paul Mitchell the School-Dallas$20,500$23,760+16%
Paul Mitchell the School-Austin$26,824$28,868+8%
Avenue Five Institute-South Austin Campus$23,144$28,368+23%
Avenue Five Institute$23,144$28,368+23%
The Salon Professional Academy-Lewisville$22,320$26,452+19%

Compare to Similar Programs in Texas

Cosmetology certificate's programs at peer institutions in Texas (151 total in state)

Scroll to see more →

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Paul Mitchell the School-DallasCarrollton$20,500$23,760$9,8330.48
Paul Mitchell the School-AustinAustin$26,824$28,868$10,4140.39
Champion Beauty CollegeHouston$26,736$19,014$10,2320.38
DuVall's School of CosmetologyBedford$26,435$23,177$7,9170.30
Charles and Sues School of Hair DesignBryan$23,225$20,327$9,8330.42
Tint School of Makeup & CosmetologyIrving$23,225$21,232$7,6980.33
National Median$17,113$9,8620.58

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with cosmetology graduates

Skincare Specialists

Provide skincare treatments to face and body to enhance an individual's appearance. Includes electrologists and laser hair removal specialists.

$41,560/yrJobs growth:Postsecondary nondegree award

Barbers

Provide barbering services, such as cutting, trimming, shampooing, and styling hair; trimming beards; or giving shaves.

$35,420/yrJobs growth:Postsecondary nondegree award

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists

Provide beauty services, such as cutting, coloring, and styling hair, and massaging and treating scalp. May shampoo hair, apply makeup, dress wigs, remove hair, and provide nail and skincare services.

$35,420/yrJobs growth:Postsecondary nondegree award

Manicurists and Pedicurists

Clean and shape customers' fingernails and toenails. May polish or decorate nails.

$34,660/yrJobs growth:Postsecondary nondegree award

Personal Service Managers, All Other

All personal service managers not listed separately.

Fitness and Wellness Coordinators

Manage or coordinate fitness and wellness programs and services. Manage and train staff of wellness specialists, health educators, or fitness instructors.

Spa Managers

Plan, direct, or coordinate activities of a spa facility. Coordinate programs, schedule and direct staff, and oversee financial activities.

First-Line Supervisors of Personal Service Workers

Supervise and coordinate activities of personal service workers.

Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance

Apply makeup to performers to reflect period, setting, and situation of their role.

Shampooers

Shampoo and rinse customers' hair.

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 Paul Mitchell the School-Dallas, approximately 37% 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 619 graduates with reported earnings and 696 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.