Cosmetology at Paul Mitchell the School-Springfield

Paul Mitchell Springfield's cosmetology program shows an unusual pattern: graduates earn above the national median initially ($20,368 versus $17,113 nationally), but then see their income drop 20% by year four to just $16,224. This puts them below both the state median ($20,888) and ranks them in the 40th percentile among Missouri's 26 cosmetology programs—meaning six in ten programs in the state produce better long-term outcomes. The debt load of $9,833 is exactly at the state median, but when your income is declining rather than growing, that creates a tighter financial squeeze over time.

The drop from $20,368 to $16,224 deserves scrutiny. In cosmetology, building a client base typically increases earnings over time, not the reverse. This backward trajectory could reflect graduates leaving the field, relocating to lower-paying positions, or struggling with client retention. Meanwhile, Missouri schools like Summit Salon Academy Kansas City and Warrensburg Area Career Center are producing graduates earning $24,000-$28,000—suggesting location and school choice matter significantly in this state.

At under $10,000 in debt, the financial risk is limited, and the program serves a predominantly lower-income student body (55% receive Pell grants). But if your child plans to build a cosmetology career in Missouri, this program's declining earnings pattern and middle-of-the-pack state ranking suggest looking at the stronger performers first.