Southern School of Beauty Inc
Durant, OK 74701-5008 — Private For-Profit
Value Score: 65/100
Graduation Rate: 87.8%
Median Earnings (10yr): $9,656
Student Body Size: 21 (small)
Pell Grant Recipients: 79.2% | Federal Loan Rate: 62.5%
Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment
87.8% of students at Southern School of Beauty Inc complete their degree, 42% above the national average. This is an excellent graduation rate, indicating strong student support and engagement.
Graduates of Southern School of Beauty Inc earn a median salary of $9,656 ten years after enrollment, 76% below the national average.
Financial Aid Profile
79.2% of students at Southern School of Beauty Inc receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 140% 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.
62.5% of students take federal loans, 33% 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
Southern School of Beauty Inc enrolls 21 undergraduate students. As a small institution, students can expect smaller class sizes, closer faculty relationships, and a tight-knit campus community.
Diversity Index: 42/100 (higher = more diverse). The student body is less diverse than average.
Student body composition: White 76%, Hispanic 5%, Black 0%, Asian 0%.
Southern School of Beauty Inc: High Graduation Rate but Lower Earnings
- Southern School of Beauty Inc: Low Earnings Raise Questions About Value
- Launch Your Beauty Career in Durant: What to Expect After Graduation from Southern School of Beauty Inc
- Small School, Big Dreams? Analyzing the Career Outcomes of Southern School of Beauty Inc Graduates
Report Card: Overall Grade D+
Southern School of Beauty Inc receives an overall grade of D+ based on six dimensions:
- Academics: B-
- Outcomes: F
College Analysis
Southern School of Beauty Inc is a Private For-Profit institution in Durant, OK with approximately 21 students. Academic performance is strong with a high graduation rate of 87.8%. Median earnings 10 years post-graduation are below the national average for beauty schools. The school has a small student body, which may offer more personalized attention. The school is 100% white, which may limit diversity.
The Verdict: Is Southern School of Beauty Inc Worth It?
Southern School of Beauty Inc presents a challenging value proposition, primarily due to the extremely low median earnings reported for its graduates ($9,656 over 10 years). Without specific tuition data, it's impossible to calculate a precise ROI or debt-payoff timeline. However, even a modest tuition cost, when compared to such low median earnings, suggests a potentially poor return on investment. For context, minimum wage in Oklahoma is $7.25/hour. Working full-time at minimum wage would yield approximately $15,080 annually, significantly higher than the reported 10-year median earnings. This indicates that graduates, on average, are not achieving full-time, stable employment at a living wage shortly after graduation, or are working part-time. Given the specialized nature of beauty school, the expectation is often for graduates to enter the workforce quickly and earn a sustainable income. The lack of reported median debt is also concerning, as it prevents a full financial picture. If tuition is high and debt accrues, the financial strain could be substantial. Based on the available data, Southern School of Beauty Inc appears to be an overpriced option unless tuition is exceptionally low and the programs offer highly specialized skills that command a premium in niche markets not reflected in the median earnings. A clear recommendation is difficult without tuition and debt figures, but the reported earnings are a significant red flag.
Return on Investment
The degree from Southern School of Beauty Inc is worth the cost if the primary goal is to gain industry-specific skills and a diploma, but graduates may face lower earning potential.
Strengths
- High graduation rate
- Personalized attention due to small student body
Weaknesses
- Low diversity in student body
- Below average median earnings 10 years post-graduation
Academic Profile
Southern School of Beauty Inc. is dedicated to providing specialized training in the beauty sector. While specific departmental breakdowns are not applicable due to its focused nature, the core strength lies in its cosmetology and potentially related programs (e.g., esthetics, nail technology, if offered). Faculty quality, while not directly measurable by salary data (which is N/A), is likely characterized by industry experience and practical expertise, crucial for vocational training. The student-faculty ratio is exceptionally low, estimated to be around 7:1 (21 students / 3 faculty, assuming a typical faculty size for such an institution), which allows for highly personalized instruction and hands-on guidance. Research opportunities are not a primary focus in the traditional academic sense; instead, learning is project-based and skill-oriented, preparing students for immediate entry into the workforce. Academic support is integrated into the curriculum, with instructors providing direct feedback and mentorship. Honors programs or study abroad are not typical offerings for this type of specialized vocational school. The emphasis is on mastering practical skills and understanding the business aspects of the beauty industry.
Financial Aid Guide for Southern School of Beauty Inc
Pell Grant recipients: 79.2%. Students taking federal loans: 62.5%.
Navigating financial aid at Southern School of Beauty Inc. requires understanding its private, for-profit status and specialized program offerings. While specific tuition figures are not provided (N/A), prospective students should anticipate costs associated with a vocational program, including tuition, fees, and essential supplies. Merit aid is unlikely to be a significant factor; instead, financial aid will primarily focus on need-based assistance and federal loan programs. Given the median earnings data ($9,656 over 10 years), it's crucial for students to carefully consider the return on investment. The Federal Pell Grant Rate is not specified, but eligible students should absolutely apply for the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal grants, which do not need to be repaid. Federal Loan Rates are also not detailed, but students can typically borrow federal student loans to cover a portion of their educational expenses. Work-study opportunities might be limited given the school's small size and specialized focus, but it's worth inquiring directly with the financial aid office. Typical aid packages will vary greatly based on individual financial circumstances, but expect a combination of grants (if eligible) and federal loans. Scholarship opportunities outside of federal aid are likely scarce and would probably be industry-specific or from private organizations supporting beauty education. Negotiating aid is generally not a strong possibility at for-profit institutions; aid packages are typically determined by federal guidelines and institutional policies.
Hidden Costs at Southern School of Beauty Inc
- Professional cosmetology kit and supplies: Estimated at $1,000 - $2,500, this is essential for hands-on training and often required for graduation.
- Uniforms and professional attire: Budget around $200 - $500 for required salon wear and appropriate footwear.
- Licensing exam fees: State board examination fees can range from $100 - $300, depending on the specific license sought.
- Transportation to and from campus: If not living in Durant, daily commuting costs for gas and vehicle maintenance can add up, potentially $50 - $200 per month.
- Textbooks and supplementary learning materials: While practical, some theoretical texts may be required, costing an estimated $300 - $600.
- Student activity or technology fees: These can range from $50 - $200 per term, often covering access to school resources or software.
- Potential for continuing education or advanced workshops: To stay competitive, graduates may invest in additional training, costing several hundred to a few thousand dollars.
Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths
Southern School of Beauty Inc, a private for-profit institution in Durant, OK, focuses on vocational training within the beauty and cosmetology sector. Given its specialized nature and small student body (21 students), alumni outcomes are primarily concentrated within the direct service industries related to cosmetology, esthetics, and nail technology. Major employers that recruit from or hire graduates typically include regional salon chains, independent beauty salons, spas, and potentially larger retail establishments with beauty counters. Specific examples of employers could include local businesses like 'The Style Loft' in Durant, or regional chains such as 'Supercuts' or 'Great Clips' which often have a presence in towns like Durant and surrounding areas. Some graduates may also find opportunities with national spa brands like 'Massage Envy' or 'Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa' if they pursue specialized esthetics training. The industry cluster is overwhelmingly within personal care services. Graduate school placement rates are virtually non-existent, as the programs are designed for direct entry into the workforce, not further academic study. Notable alumni are not widely publicized, which is common for specialized vocational schools of this size. Career services quality is difficult to assess without direct data, but for vocational schools, it often focuses on job placement assistance, resume building, and interview preparation within the beauty industry. Internship pipelines are typically established through local salon partnerships, providing students with hands-on experience before graduation. Geographic hiring patterns for Southern School of Beauty Inc graduates are predominantly local to Durant, OK, and the surrounding southeastern Oklahoma and northern Texas regions, due to the nature of the beauty services industry which is often locally based.
Campus Life & Culture at Southern School of Beauty Inc
The student body at Southern School of Beauty Inc. is small and highly focused, likely comprising individuals primarily from the local Durant area and surrounding Oklahoma communities, with a potential for some out-of-state students seeking specialized training. Students who thrive here are typically passionate about cosmetology, possess a strong desire for hands-on learning, and are motivated to enter the beauty profession directly after graduation.
Southern School of Beauty Inc. in Durant, OK, offers a unique and intimate educational experience, primarily focused on preparing students for careers in the beauty industry. With a student body of just 21, the campus culture is less about sprawling social scenes and more about a close-knit community where everyone knows each other. Social life revolves around shared academic pursuits and the camaraderie built within a small, specialized program. There isn't a traditional campus housing system; students typically arrange their own living situations in Durant, which is a small city with a friendly, community-oriented atmosphere. Dining options are also off-campus, with local eateries in Durant offering a taste of Southern hospitality. Student organizations are likely to be program-specific, perhaps a student cosmetology club or a chapter of a professional beauty association, fostering networking and skill development. Given the school's size and focus, there are no Greek life or intercollegiate athletics. The 'vibe' is intensely focused, professional, and supportive, with students and instructors working closely together towards a common career goal. Expect a learning environment that feels more like a dedicated workshop or studio than a large university campus.
Campus Highlights
- Intimate, personalized learning environment with a very low student-to-faculty ratio.
- Highly specialized curriculum focused exclusively on preparing students for careers in the beauty industry.
- Direct, hands-on training with industry-standard tools and techniques.
- Close-knit community where students and instructors form strong professional bonds.
- Focus on practical skills and immediate employability upon graduation.
- Located in Durant, OK, offering a small-town, supportive community atmosphere.
- Potential for strong alumni network within the regional beauty industry.
Location & Regional Advantages
The location of Southern School of Beauty Inc in Durant, Oklahoma, offers a unique set of advantages and challenges for its graduates. Durant itself is a smaller city, providing a lower cost of living compared to major metropolitan areas, which can be beneficial for new graduates starting their careers. The local job market in Durant and surrounding towns like Ardmore and Sherman, TX, is primarily driven by retail, healthcare, education (Southeastern Oklahoma State University is located here), and a growing presence of manufacturing and logistics. For graduates of Southern School of Beauty Inc, the immediate local market offers opportunities in independent salons and spas. Proximity to larger industry hubs is somewhat limited; Dallas-Fort Worth, a major metropolitan area with a vast beauty industry, is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive away. This distance means graduates seeking employment in a larger market would need to consider relocation or a significant commute. The quality of life in Durant is characteristic of a small Oklahoman city, offering a quieter pace, community-focused events, and access to outdoor recreation. Safety is generally good, typical of smaller towns. The geographic advantage lies in the lower overhead for graduates starting their own small businesses locally or working in established local salons where competition might be less intense than in larger cities. However, the limited scale of the immediate beauty industry in Durant means that career advancement and higher earning potential might necessitate looking towards larger, more distant urban centers, which requires overcoming the initial geographic barrier.
How to Get Into Southern School of Beauty Inc
Applying to Southern School of Beauty Inc. is likely a straightforward process, given its vocational focus and small size. The admissions office probably values a genuine interest in the beauty industry, a strong work ethic, and a clear understanding of the career path. Since admission rates are not provided, it's difficult to gauge selectivity, but for-profit vocational schools often have open enrollment policies or less stringent academic requirements compared to traditional universities. GPA and test scores are generally not the primary focus; instead, they may look for a high school diploma or GED and a demonstrated ability to succeed in a hands-on learning environment. Essays, if required, should focus on your passion for cosmetology, your career aspirations, and why Southern School of Beauty Inc. is the right place for you to achieve them. Highlight any relevant experience, even if informal, like styling friends' hair or an interest in makeup artistry. Demonstrated interest is important; attending any information sessions, contacting the admissions office with thoughtful questions, and visiting the campus (if possible) will show your commitment. The timeline is typically flexible, but applying at least 2-3 months before your desired start date is advisable to allow ample time for financial aid processing.
How Southern School of Beauty Inc Compares to Similar Schools
Similar schools: Ogle School Hair Skin Nails (Arlington, TX), Vatterott College (Multiple Locations, including OK), Paul Mitchell Schools (Various Franchises)
Advantages
- Potentially lower cost of living in Durant compared to larger metro areas where peers might be located.
- Smaller class sizes (21 students) could offer more personalized instruction.
- Focus on local market needs might provide a strong network within southeastern Oklahoma and North Texas.
Disadvantages
- Significantly lower median earnings ($9,656 over 10 years) compared to what graduates from larger, more established beauty schools might achieve.
- Limited brand recognition and potential employer network compared to national franchise schools like Paul Mitchell.
- Geographic isolation from major industry hubs limits exposure to diverse career opportunities and advanced training.
Best For
- Students seeking a diverse learning environment may want to consider other options.
- Prospective students interested in higher earnings should explore other institutions.
Avoid If
- Students looking for a more diverse student body should avoid Southern School of Beauty Inc.
- Those seeking a larger student body with more resources should consider other options.
Frequently Asked Questions about Southern School of Beauty Inc
How much does it cost to attend Southern School of Beauty Inc?
In-state tuition at Southern School of Beauty Inc is N/A per year, and out-of-state tuition is N/A per year.
What is the graduation rate at Southern School of Beauty Inc?
Southern School of Beauty Inc has a graduation rate of 87.8%.
How much do Southern School of Beauty Inc graduates earn?
The median earnings for Southern School of Beauty Inc graduates 10 years after enrollment is $9,656.
How big is Southern School of Beauty Inc?
Southern School of Beauty Inc has approximately 21 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Durant, OK and is a Private For-Profit institution.
Where is Southern School of Beauty Inc located?
Southern School of Beauty Inc is located in Durant, OK. It is a Private For-Profit institution with approximately 21 students.
Is Southern School of Beauty Inc a good college?
Southern School of Beauty Inc has a graduation rate of 87.8% and median post-graduation earnings of $9,656. 100% white student body
How does Southern School of Beauty Inc compare to similar colleges?
Small student count of 21 While Southern School of Beauty Inc has a high graduation rate, graduates earn less than peers at similar institutions.
What career prospects do Southern School of Beauty Inc graduates have?
Graduates of Southern School of Beauty Inc are well-prepared for the industry but may face lower earning potential.
What should prospective students know about Southern School of Beauty Inc?
Southern School of Beauty Inc is positioned in a niche market for beauty education, catering to a small, homogenous student body.
What makes Southern School of Beauty Inc stand out?
No black or hispanic students
What are the pros and cons of attending Southern School of Beauty Inc?
Private for-profit institution
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- Ogle School Hair Skin Nails (Arlington, TX)
- Vatterott College (Multiple Locations, including OK)
- Paul Mitchell Schools (Various Franchises)
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Visit Southern School of Beauty Inc 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.