Cosmetology at Spa Tech Institute-Westbrook
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
Analysis
Spa Tech Institute's cosmetology program ranks in the 85th percentile nationally for graduate earnings—a standout performance in a field where most programs struggle to deliver financial returns. Graduates earn $21,124 after one year, climbing to $23,325 by year four, both figures that significantly exceed the national median of $17,113. The $7,117 debt load is notably lower than the $9,862 national average, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.34 that graduates can realistically manage on a beautician's income.
Within Maine, the picture is more nuanced. While Spa Tech performs well compared to Empire Beauty School, it trails slightly behind Capilo School of Hair Design for first-year earnings. Still, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide while carrying 28% less debt than the state median gives this program a competitive edge. The steady earnings growth over four years—10% isn't dramatic, but it's positive—suggests graduates are building sustainable careers rather than hitting immediate income ceilings.
For families weighing cosmetology programs, Spa Tech offers a practical path: lower-than-average debt paired with higher-than-average earnings potential. The manageable financial burden means graduates aren't spending years digging out of debt while building their client base. If your child is committed to a beauty career, this program delivers stronger outcomes than most alternatives.
Where Spa Tech Institute-Westbrook Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all cosmetology certificate's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Spa Tech Institute-Westbrook graduates compare to all programs nationally
Spa Tech Institute-Westbrook graduates earn $21k, placing them in the 85th percentile of all cosmetology certificate programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Maine
Cosmetology certificate's programs at peer institutions in Maine (3 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spa Tech Institute-Westbrook | $21,124 | $23,325 | $7,117 | 0.34 |
| Capilo School of Hair Design | $20,556 | $23,039 | $9,833 | 0.48 |
| Empire Beauty School-Maine | $18,408 | $20,474 | $15,765 | 0.86 |
| National Median | $17,113 | — | $9,862 | 0.58 |
Other Cosmetology Programs in Maine
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Maine schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capilo School of Hair Design Augusta | — | $20,556 | $9,833 |
| Empire Beauty School-Maine Bangor | — | $18,408 | $15,765 |
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 Spa Tech Institute-Westbrook, approximately 34% 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 296 graduates with reported earnings and 333 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.