Cosmetology at Houston Community College
serving a student body of 37,970 in Houston, TX.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $15,372 track close to the $17,289 national median for Cosmetology programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.
The 57.0x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. Trade programs often deliver strong ratios, and this one is a standout.
AI risk is moderate — 24% task exposure — and the 32% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Cosmetology graduates.
The $21,317 debt load exceeds a year of the $15,372 starting salary, suggesting a multi-year repayment window before graduates break even financially.
A #77 ranking out of 1,095 Cosmetology programs nationally puts Houston Community College in the top 10% — a strong but not elite position.
The five-year earnings trajectory from $15,372 to $21,810 shows 42% growth, reflecting steady but unremarkable salary progression.
With 5 registered apprenticeships mapped to Cosmetology, graduates have substantial options for hands-on training paths that pay from day one.
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 Houston Community College? Our career guide maps every occupation path with earnings and growth data.