Cosmetology at Protege Academy

Protégé Academy's cosmetology program sits in a challenging spot, with first-year earnings of $13,261 landing well below Michigan's state median of $15,179. At the 40th percentile statewide, graduates here are earning less than most Michigan cosmetology certificate holders, and considerably less than top performers like Northern Michigan University ($21,628). The debt burden of $9,833 isn't excessive—it matches the state median—but when paired with such low initial earnings, it creates a 0.74 debt-to-earnings ratio that means nearly a full year's income just to cover the loan.

There's a silver lining in the earnings trajectory: income jumps 50% by year four to $19,865, suggesting graduates who stick with the profession can eventually reach more competitive compensation. However, even this improved figure only approaches the national median. With half of students receiving Pell grants, many families here are already financially stretched, making that difficult first year particularly concerning.

If your child is set on cosmetology training in Michigan, this program ranks in the bottom half of state options. The debt load is manageable, but the weak starting earnings mean a tougher financial path than programs at schools like Paul Mitchell or Douglas J Aveda Institute would provide. Consider whether your child has the financial cushion to weather those early years of below-average income.