Median Earnings (1yr)
$20,500
79th percentile (60th in TX)
Median Debt
$9,833
At national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.48
Manageable
Sample Size
619
Adequate data

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

Paul Mitchell the School-DallasOther cosmetology programs

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)

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

Other Cosmetology Programs in Texas

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Texas schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (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.