Cosmetology at Salon Professional Academy of San Antonio

Graduates from Salon Professional Academy earn nearly $2,000 less than the typical Texas cosmetology graduate—ranking in just the 40th percentile statewide—despite carrying slightly above-average debt loads. That first-year income of $14,642 means many graduates will struggle to cover basic living expenses while making loan payments, even with the relatively modest $9,833 debt burden. The gap widens dramatically when you look at top-performing Texas programs, where graduates regularly earn $23,000-$26,000 annually, nearly double what this academy's students bring home.

The 0.67 debt-to-earnings ratio isn't catastrophic by itself, but it becomes concerning when the denominator is this low. With earnings well below both state and national medians, graduates face a difficult path: they're earning $1,000 less monthly than peers at stronger programs while still carrying debt. Half the student body receives Pell grants, suggesting many come from families with limited financial cushions to help during the lean early years.

For families considering this program, the math is straightforward: your student could attend one of several dozen Texas cosmetology schools with better employment outcomes and similar or lower debt. Unless there's a compelling geographic or personal reason to choose this particular academy, look for programs where graduates clear at least $20,000 in their first year—proof that students are finding steady salon work or building client bases successfully.