Cosmetology at Ravenscroft Beauty College

Ravenscroft Beauty College graduates earn significantly less than other cosmetology programs in Indiana—about $3,400 below the state median of $18,592 and landing in just the 25th percentile statewide. With first-year earnings of $15,449, graduates start well behind peers at nearby schools like Paul Mitchell in Indianapolis ($23,870) or Summit Salon Academy ($21,529). Even after four years, earnings only reach $18,184, which barely catches up to where graduates of better programs start.

The debt picture adds to the concern. While the $12,041 borrowed is close to typical for Indiana cosmetology programs, it represents 78% of first-year earnings—a heavy burden when you're making less than $16,000 annually. More than half of students receive Pell grants, suggesting many come from families with limited financial resources who can least afford a program that underperforms.

For parents considering cosmetology training in the Fort Wayne area, this data suggests looking elsewhere. The earning gap compared to other Indiana schools is too substantial to ignore, especially when the debt load is similar across programs. Your child would start their career with the same financial obligation but significantly lower earning power, making it harder to build financial stability in those crucial early years.