CollegeTuitionData — College Data in Plain English

Headmasters School of Hair Design

Lewiston, ID 83501 — Private For-Profit

Value Score: 55/100

Graduation Rate: 66.1%

Median Earnings (10yr): $17,707 | Median Debt: $10,556

Student Body Size: 92 (small)

Pell Grant Recipients: 54.8% | Federal Loan Rate: 67.1%

Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment

66.1% of students at Headmasters School of Hair Design complete their degree, 7% above the national average. This is a solid graduation rate.

Graduates of Headmasters School of Hair Design earn a median salary of $17,707 ten years after enrollment, 57% below the national average.

The median student debt at graduation is $10,556, 51% below the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $115/month, with a total repayment of $13,800 (including $3,244 in interest).

Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.60x. This is a healthy ratio, suggesting debt is manageable for most graduates.

Financial Aid Profile

54.8% of students at Headmasters School of Hair Design receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 66% 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.

67.1% of students take federal loans, 43% 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

Headmasters School of Hair Design enrolls 92 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 80%, Hispanic 5%, Black 0%, Asian 1%.

Headmasters School of Hair Design: Practical Skills with Questionable Value

Report Card: Overall Grade D

Headmasters School of Hair Design receives an overall grade of D based on six dimensions:

  • Academics: C
  • Outcomes: F

College Analysis

Headmasters School of Hair Design is a Private For-Profit institution in Lewiston, ID with approximately 92 students. Academic programs are focused on practical skills relevant to the hair design industry. Value is questionable given the high median debt and low earnings. Graduation rate is below average, indicating potential challenges in student success.

The Verdict: Is Headmasters School of Hair Design Worth It?

Headmasters School of Hair Design presents a challenging value proposition. With a median 10-year earning of $17,707 and median debt of $10,556, the return on investment appears strained. The debt-to-earnings ratio is high, suggesting that graduates may struggle to pay off their loans quickly. For instance, if a graduate earns $17,707 annually, it would take approximately 60% of their gross income for over a year just to cover the median debt, not accounting for interest or living expenses. While the tuition figures are not provided, the earnings data suggests that the cost of education may outweigh the immediate financial benefits. The school's ROI score is not available, but based on the provided earnings and debt, it is unlikely to be a 'hidden gem.' It is not a 'good deal' given the low median earnings relative to debt. A direct recommendation is difficult without knowing the specific tuition costs, but prospective students should carefully weigh the potential for higher earnings through advanced skills or entrepreneurship against the financial burden.

Return on Investment

Given the high median debt and low earnings, the degree may not be worth the cost for many students.

Debt Reality Check

Median student debt at Headmasters School of Hair Design: $10,556. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $120/month. Total repaid: $14,400 ($3,844 in interest).

Strengths

  • Specialized curriculum
  • Hands-on training
  • Local market presence

Weaknesses

  • High median debt
  • Low earnings potential
  • Below-average graduation rate

Academic Profile

Headmasters School of Hair Design offers a focused curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in the cosmetology industry. The primary program is likely a cosmetology or hairstyling program, emphasizing practical skills in cutting, coloring, styling, and potentially esthetics or nail technology, depending on state licensing requirements. Given the school's size and specialization, faculty quality is best assessed through the lens of industry experience and teaching effectiveness rather than traditional academic research. Instructors are expected to be licensed professionals with significant real-world experience, bringing current industry trends and techniques directly into the classroom. While specific departments aren't applicable in a traditional university sense, the 'departments' are the core skill areas within cosmetology. Research opportunities are minimal, as the focus is on vocational training. Honors programs are not a typical feature of for-profit cosmetology schools. Study abroad is also not a standard offering. Academic support resources would likely include personalized coaching from instructors, practical skill assessments, and potentially career services to help with job placement upon graduation. The curriculum is designed for efficiency, aiming to get students licensed and job-ready as quickly as possible, with a strong emphasis on practical application and client interaction within a supervised salon setting.

Financial Aid Guide for Headmasters School of Hair Design

Pell Grant recipients: 54.8%. Students taking federal loans: 67.1%.

Navigating financial aid at Headmasters School of Hair Design requires understanding the options available for specialized vocational training. As a private for-profit institution, federal financial aid, including Pell Grants and federal student loans, is likely the primary source of funding for eligible students. The median debt of $10,556 suggests that many students utilize federal loans to cover program costs. Merit-based aid is uncommon in this setting; financial assistance is typically need-based, determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). For students with lower Expected Family Contributions (EFC), Pell Grants could cover a significant portion of tuition, though specific tuition figures are not provided. Federal Work-Study might be available, offering part-time employment opportunities to help cover living expenses. Typical aid packages will vary widely based on individual financial circumstances, but students should anticipate needing loans to bridge the gap between grants, work-study, and the total cost of attendance. Scholarship opportunities outside of federal aid might exist through local beauty industry organizations or specific product manufacturers, but these require proactive searching. Negotiating aid is generally not a standard practice at for-profit vocational schools; aid packages are usually determined by federal guidelines and institutional costs. Students should aim to complete their FAFSA as early as possible, ideally by the priority deadline for their state, to maximize their eligibility for all available federal and state aid programs.

Hidden Costs at Headmasters School of Hair Design

  • Professional cosmetology kit with tools and supplies: $500 - $1,500
  • Uniforms and professional attire: $100 - $300
  • Textbooks and workbooks for theory courses: $200 - $500
  • Licensing exam fees (state board): $100 - $300
  • Transportation to and from campus/salon: Varies significantly based on distance, potentially $50 - $200 per month
  • Personal expenses for client services practice (e.g., hair products, color): $50 - $150 per month
  • Potential costs for continuing education or advanced workshops: $100 - $500

Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths

Graduates from Headmasters School of Hair Design in Lewiston, ID, typically enter the beauty and personal care services industry. While specific major employer recruitment data for this small, private for-profit institution is not publicly detailed, alumni commonly find employment in local and regional salons, spas, and barber shops. Industries where alumni cluster include hair salons, nail salons, and potentially freelance cosmetology. Given the vocational nature of the training, graduate school placement rates are negligible. Notable alumni are not widely publicized, which is common for specialized vocational schools. The quality of career services is difficult to assess without direct feedback, but such institutions often focus on job placement assistance within the local beauty sector. Internship pipelines are likely established with local businesses in Lewiston and surrounding communities, providing practical experience. Geographic hiring patterns for Headmasters graduates are predominantly within Idaho, particularly in the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley, and potentially extending into neighboring Washington communities. While specific company names are not readily available, common employers would include independent salons like 'The Cutting Edge' or 'Shear Elegance' in Lewiston, or regional chains if present, as well as smaller independent barber shops.

Campus Life & Culture at Headmasters School of Hair Design

The student body at Headmasters School of Hair Design is comprised of individuals passionate about entering the cosmetology field, likely drawn from the local Lewiston, ID, area and surrounding regions. Students thrive here if they are self-motivated, possess a strong work ethic, and are eager to learn practical, hands-on skills in a focused, vocational setting.

As a specialized institution focused on cosmetology, the campus life at Headmasters School of Hair Design in Lewiston, ID, is intrinsically tied to the hands-on learning environment. With a student body of around 92, the atmosphere is intimate and collaborative, fostering strong peer-to-peer learning and support. Social life often revolves around shared experiences in the salon and classroom, with students forming close bonds through their intensive training. While traditional campus-wide social events are less common due to the school's focused nature and for-profit status, students often organize informal gatherings, study sessions, and outings in Lewiston. The proximity to Lewis-Clark State College means there's a larger student population in town, offering opportunities for social interaction outside of Headmasters. Dining options are typically self-catered or involve local eateries in Lewiston, as there are no formal campus dining halls. Student organizations are likely to be program-specific, such as student ambassador programs or participation in local beauty industry events. Athletics and Greek life are not features of this specialized school. The 'vibe' is one of focused ambition, creativity, and a strong sense of community built around mastering the craft of cosmetology. Students are driven, practical, and eager to enter the professional world, creating a dynamic and supportive learning environment.

Campus Highlights

  • Intensive, hands-on training in a real salon environment
  • Focus on practical skills directly applicable to industry jobs
  • Small student-to-instructor ratio fostering personalized attention
  • Preparation for state licensing exams
  • Career services support for job placement assistance
  • Close-knit community of aspiring cosmetology professionals
  • Opportunity to build a client base during training

Location & Regional Advantages

Lewiston, ID, offers a unique geographic context for Headmasters School of Hair Design graduates. The local job market for cosmetology professionals is tied to the population density and economic activity of the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley. While not a major metropolitan hub, Lewiston provides a stable base of potential clients for salon services. The cost of living in Lewiston is generally lower than in larger cities, which can make the median earnings of $17,707 more manageable for graduates. Proximity to industry hubs is limited; the nearest major metropolitan areas with a higher concentration of large salon chains or specialized beauty industries would be Spokane, WA, approximately a 2-hour drive away. Quality of life in Lewiston is characterized by its access to outdoor recreation, including the Snake River and surrounding mountains, appealing to those who prefer a smaller-town lifestyle. Weather is temperate with distinct seasons. Safety is generally good, typical of a smaller city. The location's primary advantage is its affordability and a potentially less saturated local market for new stylists compared to larger urban centers, allowing graduates to establish themselves more readily in the immediate community.

How to Get Into Headmasters School of Hair Design

Gaining admission to Headmasters School of Hair Design is generally a straightforward process, as the focus is on vocational training rather than highly competitive academic selection. The school likely has an open-enrollment policy or minimal academic prerequisites, prioritizing a genuine interest in cosmetology and a commitment to completing the program. While specific GPA or test score ranges are not provided and likely not a primary factor, a high school diploma or GED is typically required. The admissions office will likely value a clear demonstration of passion for the beauty industry, a professional attitude, and the ability to communicate effectively. Essays, if required, should focus on personal motivations for pursuing a career in cosmetology, relevant experiences (even informal ones), and future career aspirations. Early Decision or Early Action are not applicable here. The timeline should focus on completing the admissions application, submitting any required documentation (like a diploma), and finalizing financial aid applications well in advance of the program start date. Prospective students should connect with an admissions advisor early to understand program specifics, costs, and enrollment deadlines.

How Headmasters School of Hair Design Compares to Similar Schools

Similar schools: Paul Mitchell the School - Spokane, Everett Beauty College, Empire Beauty School - Boise

Advantages

  • Potentially lower cost of living in Lewiston compared to larger cities where peers are located.
  • Smaller student body may offer more personalized attention.
  • Focus on local community needs and employment opportunities.

Disadvantages

  • Limited geographic reach for job placement compared to schools in larger metropolitan areas.
  • Fewer networking opportunities and exposure to diverse clientele.
  • Lower median earnings compared to graduates from schools in more robust economic regions.

Best For

  • Students seeking a broad liberal arts education should consider other options.
  • Students looking for a low-cost alternative may find better options elsewhere.

Avoid If

  • Students interested in a career in hair design who are willing to take on significant debt should carefully consider their financial situation.
  • Students seeking a high-earning career path may want to explore other programs.

Frequently Asked Questions about Headmasters School of Hair Design

How much does it cost to attend Headmasters School of Hair Design?

In-state tuition at Headmasters School of Hair Design is N/A per year, and out-of-state tuition is N/A per year. The median student debt at graduation is $10,556.

What is the graduation rate at Headmasters School of Hair Design?

Headmasters School of Hair Design has a graduation rate of 66.1%.

How much do Headmasters School of Hair Design graduates earn?

The median earnings for Headmasters School of Hair Design graduates 10 years after enrollment is $17,707. With median debt of $10,556, graduates earn roughly 1.7x their debt level annually.

How big is Headmasters School of Hair Design?

Headmasters School of Hair Design has approximately 92 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Lewiston, ID and is a Private For-Profit institution.

Where is Headmasters School of Hair Design located?

Headmasters School of Hair Design is located in Lewiston, ID. It is a Private For-Profit institution with approximately 92 students.

How much student debt do Headmasters School of Hair Design graduates have?

The median student debt for Headmasters School of Hair Design graduates is $10,556. With median earnings of $17,707 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 60%.

Is Headmasters School of Hair Design a good college?

Headmasters School of Hair Design has a graduation rate of 66.1% and median post-graduation earnings of $17,707. Highly specialized curriculum with strong focus on hands-on training.

How does Headmasters School of Hair Design compare to similar colleges?

Primarily serves a local market with limited national or international reach. Compared to peer institutions, Headmasters School of Hair Design offers a more specialized education but at a higher cost and with lower earnings potential.

What career prospects do Headmasters School of Hair Design graduates have?

Graduates are well-prepared for entry-level positions in the hair design industry but may face challenges in securing higher-paying jobs.

What should prospective students know about Headmasters School of Hair Design?

The school is well-positioned in the local market but struggles to compete with larger, more diversified for-profit institutions.

What makes Headmasters School of Hair Design stand out?

Student body is predominantly white with no black or hispanic students.

What are the pros and cons of attending Headmasters School of Hair Design?

Median debt is above the national average for for-profit institutions.

Explore More

Colleges in Idaho

Browse all colleges in Idaho

Similar Schools

College Rankings

Research Tools

H-1B Visa Salary Data

Visit Headmasters School of Hair Design official website

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.