Analysis
Studio Academy of Beauty delivers impressive value in cosmetology education, ranking in the 95th percentile nationally for both earnings and low debt. With median first-year earnings of $22,434 against just $6,333 in debt, graduates achieve one of the best financial outcomes in the field—earning $5,300 more than the national average while carrying $3,500 less debt than typical programs.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.28 is exceptionally strong, meaning graduates owe less than three months' salary. This puts the program among the most affordable paths into cosmetology nationwide. While the 60th percentile ranking within Arizona shows it's solid but not exceptional compared to state peers, the national comparison reveals this program significantly outperforms most cosmetology schools across the country.
The minimal earnings growth from year one to four (just 2%) reflects the reality of the cosmetology field rather than a program weakness—most earning potential is realized quickly after graduation. With 74% of students receiving Pell grants, this program clearly serves students who need affordable career training that leads to immediate employment.
**Bottom line:** This is an excellent choice for cosmetology training, offering above-average earnings with below-average debt. Your child would graduate with manageable debt and strong job prospects, making this one of the safer bets in vocational education.
Where Studio Academy of Beauty Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all cosmetology certificate's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Studio Academy of Beauty 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Academy of Beauty | $22,434 | $22,915 | +2% |
| Pure Aesthetics Natural Skincare School | $21,125 | $31,813 | +51% |
| Penrose Academy | $23,700 | $31,518 | +33% |
| Aveda Institute-Tucson | $23,086 | $26,437 | +15% |
| Aveda Institute-Phoenix | $23,086 | $26,437 | +15% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Arizona
Cosmetology certificate's programs at peer institutions in Arizona (24 total in state)
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| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 Studio Academy of BeautyChandler | $22,434 | $22,915 | $6,333 | 0.28 |
 Southwest Institute of Healing ArtsTempe | $26,795 | $22,250 | $9,500 | 0.35 |
 Penrose AcademyScottsdale | $23,700 | $31,518 | $8,043 | 0.34 |
 Aveda Institute-PhoenixTempe | $23,086 | $26,437 | $10,555 | 0.46 |
| Aveda Institute-TucsonTucson | $23,086 | $26,437 | $10,555 | 0.46 |
 International Barber CollegeChandler | $22,925 | — | $16,500 | 0.72 |
| 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 Studio Academy of Beauty, approximately 74% 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 665 graduates with reported earnings and 775 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.