Cosmetology at Atlanta Technical College
a compact campus enrolling 3,044 students in Atlanta, GA.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $17,157/yr, roughly in line with the $17,289 national median for Cosmetology. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.
With a 71.7x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 21% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Cosmetology career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.
With first-year pay of $17,157 far exceeding the $7,927 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
Atlanta Technical College ranks #36 among 1,095 Cosmetology programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.
A 27% earnings increase from $17,157 to $21,834 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.
The 5 apprenticeship pathways connected to Cosmetology reflect strong industry infrastructure for this trade. Apprenticeships typically lead to journeyman-level wages.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Cosmetology graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Personal service managers, all other | $61,340 | +6.5% | 48% |
| Makeup artists, theatrical and performance | $50,280 | +8.1% | 66% |
| First-line supervisors of personal service workers | $47,080 | +6.7% | 59% |
Cosmetology Career Guide
What can you do with a Cosmetology credential from Atlanta Technical College? Our career guide maps every occupation path with earnings and growth data.