Cosmetology at Paul Mitchell the School-Dallas
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
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
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 Paul Mitchell the School-Dallas graduates compare to all programs nationally
Paul Mitchell the School-Dallas graduates earn $21k, placing them in the 79th 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 Texas
Cosmetology certificate's programs at peer institutions in Texas (151 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paul Mitchell the School-Dallas | $20,500 | $23,760 | $9,833 | 0.48 |
| Paul Mitchell the School-Austin | $26,824 | $28,868 | $10,414 | 0.39 |
| Champion Beauty College | $26,736 | $19,014 | $10,232 | 0.38 |
| DuVall's School of Cosmetology | $26,435 | $23,177 | $7,917 | 0.30 |
| Charles and Sues School of Hair Design | $23,225 | $20,327 | $9,833 | 0.42 |
| Tint School of Makeup & Cosmetology | $23,225 | $21,232 | $7,698 | 0.33 |
| National Median | $17,113 | — | $9,862 | 0.58 |
Other Cosmetology Programs in Texas
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Texas schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paul Mitchell the School-Austin Austin | — | $26,824 | $10,414 |
| Champion Beauty College Houston | — | $26,736 | $10,232 |
| DuVall's School of Cosmetology Bedford | — | $26,435 | $7,917 |
| Charles and Sues School of Hair Design Bryan | — | $23,225 | $9,833 |
| Tint School of Makeup & Cosmetology Irving | — | $23,225 | $7,698 |
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.