Cosmetology at Paul Mitchell the School-Raleigh

Paul Mitchell the School-Raleigh graduates start modest but show something unusual for cosmetology: substantial earnings growth. While first-year earnings of $18,849 lag behind North Carolina's top community college programs by thousands, graduates see a 35% income increase by year four, reaching $25,519—well above both state and national medians for the field. Among North Carolina's 75 cosmetology programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile, placing it solidly in the middle tier despite being a for-profit school.

The debt picture requires close attention. At $15,333, graduates carry about $2,300 more than the state median and nearly $5,500 above the national average. However, the program ranks in just the 5th percentile nationally for debt—meaning 95% of cosmetology programs saddle students with more debt than this one. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.81 means graduates owe roughly 10 months of first-year income, which is manageable compared to many beauty school programs.

For families considering this against North Carolina's community college alternatives, the tradeoff is clear: you'll pay more upfront than at places like Gaston College or Wake Tech, where graduates earn $8,000+ more immediately. But if your child can weather a tough first year and builds a strong client base, the earnings trajectory suggests viability. Half of students here receive Pell grants, indicating the school serves working-class families who need the income growth to justify the investment.