Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Services at Empire Beauty School-Newport News
a smaller institution with 78 students in Newport News, VA.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $15,679 track close to the $17,289 national median for Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Services programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.
Some AI exposure exists in Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Services's career paths, with 24% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 32% gap from the optimistic case.
Median debt of $12,090 represents roughly 9 months of the $15,679 starting salary — a manageable burden by trade school standards.
Ranked #852 of 1,095 Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Services programs, Empire Beauty School-Newport News falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.
Earnings grow from $15,679 to $22,409 over five years — a 43% increase that's moderate and in line with typical trade career progression.
Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Services offers 5 registered apprenticeship pathways — an unusually broad set of earn-while-you-learn alternatives to the classroom track.
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 and Related Personal Grooming Services 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% |
About Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Services Careers
Your day will be hands-on, creative, and social. You might spend it behind the chair with scissors and foils, transforming a client’s style, or at a dedicated station, meticulously performing manicures. Others find their niche in quiet spa rooms, providing facials and expert skincare advice. The work is built on direct interaction and trust, turning first-time customers into loyal regulars.
Read the full Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Services career guide →