Cosmetology at Paul Mitchell the School-San Antonio
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
Analysis
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
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-San Antonio graduates compare to all programs nationally
Paul Mitchell the School-San Antonio 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-San Antonio | $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-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.