Cosmetology at Paul Mitchell the School-San Antonio
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
paulmitchell.edu/sanantonioAnalysis
This Paul Mitchell San Antonio program delivers solid earning potential that significantly outpaces both national and state averages for cosmetology. At $20,500 in first-year earnings, graduates earn 20% more than the national median and 25% more than the typical Texas cosmetology program. The program ranks in the 79th percentile nationally and 60th percentile within Texas—respectable performance in a state with many cosmetology schools.
The debt picture is reasonable at $9,833, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.48. This means graduates typically owe about half their first-year salary, which is sustainable for most students. The 16% earnings growth over four years shows positive career trajectory, with graduates reaching nearly $24,000 by their fourth year.
However, it's worth noting that several other Texas schools significantly outperform this program, with top performers like Paul Mitchell Austin and Champion Beauty College generating $26,000+ in first-year earnings. While this San Antonio location provides above-average outcomes, students willing to relocate within Texas could potentially access programs with 25-30% higher earning potential. For students committed to staying in San Antonio, this program offers a solid return on investment with earnings that clearly exceed state and national norms.
Where Paul Mitchell the School-San Antonio Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all cosmetology certificate's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Paul Mitchell the School-San Antonio 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-San Antonio | $20,500 | $23,760 | +16% |
| Paul Mitchell the School-Austin | $26,824 | $28,868 | +8% |
| Avenue Five Institute | $23,144 | $28,368 | +23% |
| Avenue Five Institute-South Austin Campus | $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-San Antonio, approximately 52% 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.