Cosmetology at Paul Mitchell the School-Dallas
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
paulmitchell.edu/dallasAnalysis
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
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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)
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| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $20,500 | $23,760 | $9,833 | 0.48 | |
| $26,824 | $28,868 | $10,414 | 0.39 | |
| $26,736 | $19,014 | $10,232 | 0.38 | |
| $26,435 | $23,177 | $7,917 | 0.30 | |
| $23,225 | $20,327 | $9,833 | 0.42 | |
| $23,225 | $21,232 | $7,698 | 0.33 | |
| 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 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.