Cosmetology at Sierra College of Beauty
a compact campus enrolling 245 students in Merced, CA.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $12,331 place Sierra College of Beauty below the $17,289 national median for Cosmetology — worth weighing against tuition and cost of living.
AI risk is moderate — 24% task exposure — and the 40% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Cosmetology graduates.
At #869 out of 1,095 programs, Sierra College of Beauty's financial outcomes for Cosmetology trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth from $12,331 to $23,652 over five years (92% increase) indicates that graduates in this trade see meaningful 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 Sierra College of Beauty? Our career guide maps every occupation path with earnings and growth data.