Cosmetology at South Hills Beauty Academy

South Hills Beauty Academy produces some of the strongest earning cosmetology graduates in Pennsylvania—ranking in the 80th percentile statewide while keeping debt nearly 50% below the state median. First-year earnings of $20,852 trail only Metro Beauty Academy in Pennsylvania and sit well above both the state median ($16,236) and national median ($17,113). With just $7,662 in debt, graduates face a remarkably manageable 0.37 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning they borrow less than five months' salary—far better than the typical cosmetology program.

The earnings trajectory shows steady growth to $22,780 by year four, suggesting graduates build sustainable careers rather than hitting an early ceiling. This matters in a field where many programs show flat or declining earnings. The low Pell grant percentage (10%) might indicate less aid availability, but the modest debt figures suggest students aren't compensating with excessive loans.

For a family weighing beauty school options in Pennsylvania, this program offers an unusually strong combination: competitive earnings, manageable debt, and demonstrated staying power in the profession. It's a practical path into cosmetology without the debt burden that plagues many similar programs.