Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett
Lawrenceville, GA 30044-3045 — Private For-Profit
Value Score: 65/100
Graduation Rate: 54.5%
Median Earnings (10yr): $23,589 | Median Debt: $10,231
Student Body Size: 130 (small)
Pell Grant Recipients: 63.5% | Federal Loan Rate: 60.5%
Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment
54.5% of students at Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett complete their degree, 12% below the national average. This is below average — prospective students should investigate support services and retention programs.
Graduates of Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett earn a median salary of $23,589 ten years after enrollment, 42% below the national average.
The median student debt at graduation is $10,231, 52% below the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $111/month, with a total repayment of $13,320 (including $3,089 in interest).
Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.43x. This is an excellent ratio — graduates carry manageable debt relative to their earning power.
Financial Aid Profile
63.5% of students at Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 92% above the national average. This high Pell rate indicates the school serves a large proportion of lower-income students and likely has strong need-based aid programs.
60.5% of students take federal loans, 29% above the national average. This high borrowing rate means most students need loans to attend. Factor loan payments into your decision carefully.
Student Body & Campus Diversity
Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett enrolls 130 undergraduate students. As a small institution, students can expect smaller class sizes, closer faculty relationships, and a tight-knit campus community.
Diversity Index: 35/100 (higher = more diverse). The student body is less diverse than average.
Student body composition: White 3%, Hispanic 11%, Black 80%, Asian 1%.
Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett: Low Graduation Rate, Low Debt, Below-Average Earnings
- Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett: Styling Your Future in the Beauty Industry
- Unlock Your Career Potential: See Where Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett Graduates Thrive
- Is Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett the Right Investment for Your Beauty Career?
Report Card: Overall Grade D
Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett receives an overall grade of D based on six dimensions:
- Academics: C-
- Outcomes: F
College Analysis
Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett is a Private For-Profit institution in Lawrenceville, GA with approximately 130 students. Academics: The school has a low graduation rate of 54.55%, indicating potential challenges in academic success. Value: Median student debt is $10,231, which is relatively low compared to many other for-profit institutions. Outcomes: Median earnings 10 years post-graduation are $23,589, which is below the national average for similar programs.
The Verdict: Is Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett Worth It?
Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett presents a mixed value proposition. The median earnings of $23,589 over a 10-year period, coupled with a median debt of $10,231, suggest a challenging return on investment. The debt-to-earnings ratio is concerning, as it takes approximately 4.3 years of median earnings to repay the median debt, assuming no living expenses or interest accrual. This timeline is quite long for a field that often offers entry-level positions with wages that may not significantly outpace this repayment period. While the school provides specialized training for the beauty industry, the relatively low median earnings raise questions about the long-term financial benefits compared to the cost of education and the incurred debt. Without specific tuition figures, a precise ROI calculation is difficult, but the reported median earnings are a significant indicator. Compared to other vocational programs or even some associate degrees that can lead to higher earning potential, the financial outlook for graduates of Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett appears modest. It is not an inherently bad deal if the student is passionate about a career in cosmetology and finds fulfilling employment, but prospective students must carefully weigh the potential earnings against the debt. It is likely overpriced if the primary goal is significant financial gain, but could be considered a reasonable investment for those solely focused on entering a specific trade.
Return on Investment
While the degree is affordable, the low graduation rate and below-average earnings suggest that the return on investment may be limited.
Debt Reality Check
Median student debt at Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett: $10,231. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $116/month. Total repaid: $13,920 ($3,689 in interest).
Strengths
- Low student debt
- Niche in the beauty industry
Weaknesses
- Low graduation rate
- Below-average earnings
Academic Profile
Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett is dedicated to providing specialized training in the beauty industry, with its primary academic strength lying in its cosmetology and related programs. The curriculum is designed to equip students with the technical skills, theoretical knowledge, and client management abilities necessary to pass state licensing exams and succeed in their chosen careers. Key programs likely include Cosmetology, Esthetics (Skincare), and potentially Nail Technology, each offering a comprehensive pathway to professional licensure. Given its vocational nature, research opportunities in the traditional academic sense are limited. Instead, the focus is on practical application and staying current with industry trends and techniques. Faculty quality is best assessed through their industry experience and teaching effectiveness, as traditional metrics like faculty salary and student-faculty ratios (which are not provided) are less indicative in this specialized setting. However, instructors are typically licensed professionals with real-world salon or spa experience, bringing practical insights into the classroom. Academic support is paramount, with instructors providing hands-on guidance, personalized feedback, and preparation for the rigorous state licensing examinations. The school likely emphasizes a supportive learning environment where students can practice their skills repeatedly and receive constructive criticism to hone their craft. Honors programs or study abroad are not typical offerings at this type of institution; the academic focus is intensely practical and career-focused.
Financial Aid Guide for Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett
Pell Grant recipients: 63.5%. Students taking federal loans: 60.5%.
Navigating financial aid at Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett requires understanding the federal student aid system, as this is a private for-profit institution. The majority of financial assistance will likely come from federal sources, including Pell Grants for students demonstrating significant financial need and federal student loans (Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized) for all eligible students. The median debt for graduates is reported at $10,231, suggesting that many students utilize federal loans to finance their education. Merit-based aid or institutional scholarships are less common at for-profit beauty schools compared to traditional colleges; the primary focus is on making federal aid accessible. Work-study opportunities may be available, but these are often limited and competitive, depending on federal funding allocated to the school. For students from lower-income households (e.g., an annual family income below $30,000), a significant portion of tuition could be covered by Pell Grants, potentially reducing the need for loans. For middle-income families (e.g., $50,000-$80,000 annual income), federal loans will likely form the bulk of the aid package, covering a substantial portion of the tuition and living expenses. It's crucial for prospective students to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as early as possible, ideally by the school's priority deadline, to maximize their eligibility for all federal aid programs. While negotiating aid packages is generally not a standard practice at for-profit institutions, discussing specific financial circumstances with the financial aid office might yield some flexibility, particularly if there are extenuating circumstances. The total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and estimated living expenses, should be discussed thoroughly with the financial aid office to understand the full financial commitment.
Hidden Costs at Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett
- Professional cosmetology kit with tools and supplies: Estimated $1,000 - $2,000.
- Textbooks and workbooks for theory classes: Estimated $300 - $600 per year.
- Uniforms and professional attire: Estimated $200 - $400.
- State licensing exam fees: Estimated $200 - $400.
- Transportation costs to and from campus (gas, public transit): Varies significantly by distance, potentially $50 - $200 per month.
- Personal expenses for practice materials and client services: Variable, but budget at least $50 - $100 per month.
- Potential costs for continuing education or advanced workshops post-graduation: Variable, but important for career growth.
Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths
Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett, a private for-profit institution in Lawrenceville, GA, focuses on preparing students for careers in the beauty and cosmetology industry. While specific data on major employers that recruit directly from this campus is not publicly detailed, graduates typically find employment in salons, spas, and beauty retail environments. Key industries where alumni cluster include personal care services, with roles such as hairstylists, nail technicians, estheticians, and makeup artists being common. The school's curriculum is designed to meet industry standards, aiming to equip graduates with the practical skills demanded by employers in this sector.
Given the nature of the beauty industry, formal graduate school placement rates are not applicable. The focus is on direct entry into the workforce. Information on notable alumni is not readily available, which is common for specialized vocational schools. Career services at Empire Beauty School are expected to assist with resume building, interview preparation, and job placement within the local and regional beauty market. Internship pipelines are typically established through partnerships with local salons and spas, providing students with hands-on experience before graduation. Geographic hiring patterns for Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett graduates are predominantly within the greater Atlanta metropolitan area and surrounding communities in Georgia, reflecting the local demand for skilled beauty professionals. While some graduates may relocate, the immediate job market is the primary focus.
Campus Life & Culture at Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett
The student body at Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett is comprised of individuals highly motivated to enter the beauty industry, often seeking a direct path to licensure and employment. The demographic is likely diverse in terms of age and background, attracting recent high school graduates as well as individuals seeking a career change. Students who thrive here are typically ambitious, detail-oriented, possess good interpersonal skills, and are eager to learn practical, hands-on techniques.
Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett, located in Lawrenceville, GA, offers a focused and career-oriented campus experience. As a specialized institution, the 'campus life' here is intrinsically tied to the student's journey toward becoming a licensed beauty professional. The student body, numbering around 130, fosters a close-knit community where students often form strong bonds through shared academic and career aspirations. Social life revolves around shared experiences within the school, such as group projects, practice sessions, and preparing for state board exams. While traditional campus housing and extensive dining halls aren't features of Empire Beauty School, students typically commute, often from surrounding Gwinnett County neighborhoods like Suwanee, Duluth, or Snellville, or even from further afield in the greater Atlanta metropolitan area. This means social gatherings and downtime often occur off-campus in local cafes, parks, or student apartments. Student organizations are less about broad extracurriculars and more about professional development, potentially including student chapters of industry associations or internal clubs focused on specific beauty disciplines like cosmetology, esthetics, or nail technology. Athletics and Greek life are not part of the Empire Beauty School experience, as the focus is squarely on vocational training. The 'vibe' is one of ambition, dedication, and a strong sense of purpose, with students driven by the goal of launching successful careers in the beauty industry. The faculty and staff often act as mentors, providing guidance not just on technical skills but also on building a professional network and client base.
Campus Highlights
- Specialized, career-focused curriculum designed for immediate industry entry.
- Hands-on training in state-of-the-art facilities.
- Experienced instructors who are licensed beauty professionals.
- Preparation for state licensing exams as a core component of the program.
- Close-knit student community with shared career aspirations.
- Focus on developing client service and business management skills.
- Location in the vibrant Gwinnett County, offering access to a diverse clientele and job market.
Location & Regional Advantages
Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett is situated in Lawrenceville, Georgia, a suburban city within the rapidly growing Atlanta metropolitan area. This location offers significant advantages for students pursuing careers in the beauty industry. The local job market in Gwinnett County and the broader Atlanta region is robust, with a high demand for skilled cosmetologists, estheticians, and nail technicians driven by a large and diverse population. The cost of living in Lawrenceville is generally more affordable than in downtown Atlanta, making it an attractive place for students to live while attending school and starting their careers.
Proximity to Atlanta provides access to a major economic hub with numerous high-end salons, spas, and beauty retail chains, offering ample career opportunities. The region boasts a vibrant and diverse economy, which translates into a consistent need for personal care services. Quality of life in the Gwinnett area is characterized by suburban amenities, good schools, and a variety of recreational activities. The weather is typical of the Southeast, with warm summers and mild winters, which can be appealing to many. While like any urban area, safety can be a concern, Gwinnett County generally maintains a good reputation for safety. The strategic location in a growing suburban corridor with close ties to a major city like Atlanta directly enhances career opportunities for Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett graduates by placing them within a strong consumer market for beauty services.
How to Get Into Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett
Gaining admission to Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett is generally a straightforward process focused on ensuring prospective students are serious about a career in the beauty industry and meet basic eligibility requirements. Unlike highly selective universities, there are no Early Decision or Early Action advantages, as the admissions process is typically rolling. The admissions office primarily values a genuine interest in cosmetology, esthetics, or related fields, a commitment to completing the program, and the ability to meet financial obligations. While specific GPA or test score ranges are not published, applicants are generally expected to have a high school diploma or GED. The admissions process often involves an interview with an admissions representative to discuss career goals, motivations, and expectations. Essays are not typically a required component, but if requested, a personal statement focusing on passion for the beauty industry, career aspirations, and why Empire Beauty School is the right choice would be most effective. Demonstrated interest is shown through attending information sessions, scheduling campus tours, and actively engaging with the admissions team. The timeline recommendation is to apply well in advance of the desired program start date, as programs often have set enrollment periods. Prospective students should aim to complete their FAFSA and any necessary financial aid applications concurrently with their admissions application to ensure a smooth transition into the program.
How Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett Compares to Similar Schools
Similar schools: Aveda Institute Atlanta, Paul Mitchell Schools - Atlanta, Gwinnett College - Lawrenceville
Advantages
- Potentially lower tuition costs compared to some higher-profile cosmetology schools.
- Strong focus on local job placement within the Gwinnett and greater Atlanta area.
- Smaller student body may allow for more personalized attention from instructors.
Disadvantages
- Significantly lower median graduate earnings compared to national averages for some vocational trades.
- Limited public data on specific employer partnerships and graduate success metrics.
- Less brand recognition and prestige compared to established national cosmetology school chains.
Best For
- Students seeking high-paying careers may want to consider other options.
- Prospective students with lower financial means may find the low debt levels appealing.
Avoid If
- Students looking for high graduation rates and strong job placement should consider other institutions.
- Prospective students with high financial needs may want to explore more affordable options.
Frequently Asked Questions about Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett
How much does it cost to attend Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett?
In-state tuition at Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett is N/A per year, and out-of-state tuition is N/A per year. The median student debt at graduation is $10,231.
What is the graduation rate at Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett?
Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett has a graduation rate of 54.5%.
How much do Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett graduates earn?
The median earnings for Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett graduates 10 years after enrollment is $23,589. With median debt of $10,231, graduates earn roughly 2.3x their debt level annually.
How big is Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett?
Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett has approximately 130 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Lawrenceville, GA and is a Private For-Profit institution.
Where is Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett located?
Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett is located in Lawrenceville, GA. It is a Private For-Profit institution with approximately 130 students.
How much student debt do Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett graduates have?
The median student debt for Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett graduates is $10,231. With median earnings of $23,589 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 43%.
Is Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett a good college?
Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett has a graduation rate of 54.5% and median post-graduation earnings of $23,589. High proportion of Black students (80%)
How does Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett compare to similar colleges?
Small student body size Compared to peer institutions, Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett has a lower graduation rate and below-average earnings, but relatively low student debt.
What career prospects do Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett graduates have?
Graduates of Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett are well-suited for entry-level positions in the beauty industry.
What should prospective students know about Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett?
Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett is positioned in a competitive market for for-profit beauty schools, offering a niche in the beauty industry.
What makes Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett stand out?
Low graduation rate compared to peer institutions
What are the pros and cons of attending Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett?
Below-average median earnings 10 years post-graduation
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View on College Scorecard (Dept. of Education)
Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.