Cosmetology at Northwood Technical College
a compact campus enrolling 2,026 students in Rice Lake, WI.
Program Analysis
Northwood Technical College's Cosmetology graduates start at $18,294/yr — above the $17,289 national average, though not by a wide margin.
With a 65.3x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 36% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Cosmetology career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $5,500 in median debt clears fast against $18,294 in annual earnings.
Northwood Technical College ranks #50 among 1,095 Cosmetology programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.
A 49% earnings increase from $18,294 to $27,307 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 Northwood Technical College? Our career guide maps every occupation path with earnings and growth data.