Cosmetology at Robert Fiance Beauty Schools-North Plainfield
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
robertfiance.eduAnalysis
Robert Fiance Beauty Schools-North Plainfield graduates earn significantly more than their peers—outperforming 95% of cosmetology programs nationally and ranking in the 80th percentile among New Jersey schools. At $22,676 in the first year, graduates earn $5,500 more than the typical cosmetology certificate holder and about $6,000 above the New Jersey median. The debt load of $8,248 is manageable, coming in slightly below both state and national averages, making this one of the better value propositions in cosmetology education.
The concerning element is the earnings trajectory: by year four, median income drops to $17,386, a 23% decline. This likely reflects the reality of cosmetology careers—many graduates may transition to part-time work, change fields, or face the challenges of building a client base in competitive markets. However, even with this decline, graduates still match the national median for the field.
For families considering cosmetology careers, this program offers a stronger-than-average start with relatively low debt. The initial earning advantage gives graduates breathing room to build their careers, whether that means establishing a chair rental business, developing a loyal clientele, or exploring other paths in the beauty industry. The first-year performance suggests the school provides solid technical training and perhaps better job placement support than most competitors.
Where Robert Fiance Beauty Schools-North Plainfield Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all cosmetology certificate's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Robert Fiance Beauty Schools-North Plainfield graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Robert Fiance Beauty Schools-North Plainfield | $22,676 | $17,386 | -23% |
| Artistic Academy of Hair Design | $17,274 | $27,036 | +57% |
| Innovate Salon Academy | $16,420 | $23,390 | +42% |
| Innovate Salon Academy | $16,420 | $23,390 | +42% |
| Parisian Beauty School | $15,517 | $22,644 | +46% |
Compare to Similar Programs in New Jersey
Cosmetology certificate's programs at peer institutions in New Jersey (24 total in state)
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| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $22,676 | $17,386 | $8,248 | 0.36 | |
| $19,411 | — | $9,833 | 0.51 | |
| $18,519 | $22,163 | $6,211 | 0.34 | |
| $18,408 | $20,474 | $15,765 | 0.86 | |
| $18,408 | $20,474 | $15,765 | 0.86 | |
| $18,284 | $20,904 | $9,500 | 0.52 | |
| National Median | $17,113 | — | $9,862 | 0.58 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with cosmetology graduates
Skincare Specialists
Barbers
Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists
Manicurists and Pedicurists
Personal Service Managers, All Other
Fitness and Wellness Coordinators
Spa Managers
First-Line Supervisors of Personal Service Workers
Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance
Shampooers
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 Robert Fiance Beauty Schools-North Plainfield, approximately 35% 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 71 graduates with reported earnings and 96 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.