Median Earnings (1yr)
$21,340
87th percentile (60th in CO)
Median Debt
$9,500
4% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.45
Manageable
Sample Size
82
Adequate data

Analysis

The Salon Professional Academy-Colorado Springs produces earnings well above what most cosmetology programs deliver nationally, placing graduates in the 87th percentile—nearly $4,000 more than the typical program. However, within Colorado's competitive beauty school market, this represents middle-of-the-pack performance. Colorado cosmetology grads generally earn more than the national average, and this program sits right at the state median of $20,014, trailing the top five Colorado schools by $1,500 to $5,600 in first-year earnings.

The $9,500 debt burden is reasonable for the field and translates to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45—better than many certificate programs nationally. For a parent evaluating this against other Colorado options, the key question is whether convenience or location factors justify accepting middle-tier earnings when stronger programs exist elsewhere in the state. Nearly half the students here receive Pell grants, suggesting the school serves students with financial need who may prioritize accessibility.

This is a serviceable choice for cosmetology training that performs well nationally but doesn't stand out within Colorado. If your child has access to programs in Westminster or Denver that show significantly higher earnings, those warrant serious consideration. If location ties them to Colorado Springs specifically, this program delivers acceptable outcomes with manageable debt.

Where The Salon Professional Academy-Colorado Springs Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all cosmetology certificate's programs nationally

The Salon Professional Academy-Colorado SpringsOther cosmetology programs

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 The Salon Professional Academy-Colorado Springs graduates compare to all programs nationally

The Salon Professional Academy-Colorado Springs graduates earn $21k, placing them in the 87th percentile of all cosmetology certificate programs nationally.

Compare to Similar Programs in Colorado

Cosmetology certificate's programs at peer institutions in Colorado (28 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
The Salon Professional Academy-Colorado Springs$21,340—$9,5000.45
Elevate Salon Institute-Westminster$27,005$18,694$12,0000.44
Aveda Institute-Denver$26,636$29,440$12,0000.45
Paul Mitchell the School-Denver$24,952$22,164$11,8330.47
Pickens Technical College$22,997$22,311$9,5000.41
IBMC College$22,822$23,563$9,8320.43
National Median$17,113—$9,8620.58

Other Cosmetology Programs in Colorado

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Colorado schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Elevate Salon Institute-Westminster
Westminster
—$27,005$12,000
Aveda Institute-Denver
Denver
—$26,636$12,000
Paul Mitchell the School-Denver
Lakewood
—$24,952$11,833
Pickens Technical College
Aurora
$4,930$22,997$9,500
IBMC College
Fort Collins
$15,320$22,822$9,832

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 The Salon Professional Academy-Colorado Springs, approximately 49% 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 82 graduates with reported earnings and 103 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.