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
Earnings Distribution
How Spa Tech Institute-Westbrook 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spa Tech Institute-Westbrook | $21,124 | $23,325 | +10% |
| Institute of Advanced Medical Esthetics | $27,490 | $36,799 | +34% |
| Saint Paul College | $32,987 | $36,693 | +11% |
| Capilo School of Hair Design | $20,556 | $23,039 | +12% |
| Empire Beauty School-Maine | $18,408 | $20,474 | +11% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Maine
Cosmetology certificate's programs at peer institutions in Maine (3 total in state)
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| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $21,124 | $23,325 | $7,117 | 0.34 | |
| $20,556 | $23,039 | $9,833 | 0.48 | |
| $18,408 | $20,474 | $15,765 | 0.86 | |
| 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 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.