Cosmetology at PJ's College of Cosmetology-Clarksville

The earnings trajectory here tells an unusual story for cosmetology training. While first-year graduates earn just $14,181—well below Indiana's state median of $18,592 and ranking in the bottom quarter of Indiana programs—earnings jump 37% by year four to nearly $19,500. That's significant growth in an industry where many programs show flat or declining income patterns. Still, even after four years, graduates aren't quite catching up to what others in Indiana earn right out of school.

The $9,833 in debt sits close to national averages but below Indiana's typical $11,750, which matters given how long it takes earnings to climb. With 61% of students receiving Pell grants, many are borrowing to enter a field where initial income barely covers basic living expenses. Compare this to Indiana's top performers—Aveda Fredric's Institute and Paul Mitchell Indianapolis both start graduates around $24,000—and the difference is stark. That $10,000 earnings gap in year one represents real financial pressure when you're servicing debt.

If your child is considering this program, understand they're likely facing two to three years of genuinely tight finances before income improves. The growth pattern suggests graduates who stick with the industry can build viable careers, but the early struggle is real. For students who can attend a stronger-performing Indiana program without significantly more debt, that would be the smarter financial path.