Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $21,213/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | $-12,787/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 75.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $7,883 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Services. | Certificate | $18,245 | $6,708 |
The Risk Factor
75.0% of students at Central Oklahoma College graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 25% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Central Oklahoma College delivers poor financial returns that make it difficult to recommend for most students. With median graduate earnings of just $21,213 ten years after enrollment, you'll struggle to achieve meaningful income growth even with a degree.
The cosmetology program, which represents the school's primary offering, produces graduates earning $18,245 annually while carrying $6,708 in debt. This creates a debt-to-income ratio that leaves little room for loan repayment or financial stability. Even Oklahoma's relatively low cost of living cannot offset these weak earning outcomes.
Your financial risk centers on the fundamental mismatch between program costs and career earning potential. While the $7,883 median debt load appears manageable, it becomes problematic when paired with wages that barely exceed minimum wage levels. The 75% graduation rate suggests you'll likely complete the program, but completion doesn't guarantee financial success.
This school might work financially if you're using it as a stepping stone to immediate employment while living at home with minimal expenses. You should also verify that cosmetology licenses earned here transfer if you plan to work outside Oklahoma.
Most students should explore alternative pathways to cosmetology careers, including apprenticeships, community college programs with stronger job placement rates, or direct entry into salons that provide training. The combination of low wages and educational debt creates a challenging financial foundation that could limit your options for years after graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Central Oklahoma College worth the cost compared to other schools?
Central Oklahoma College graduates earn around $21,200 annually ten years after enrollment, which is below the national average for college graduates. With relatively low median debt of $7,883, the financial risk is manageable, but the earning potential remains limited.
What programs at Central Oklahoma College have the best return on investment?
The school's main program is Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Services, with graduates earning about $18,245 annually. This is below the overall school average and reflects the lower earning potential typical in beauty and personal care fields.
How much debt do Central Oklahoma College students typically graduate with?
Students at Central Oklahoma College graduate with a median debt of $7,883, which is relatively low compared to many four-year institutions. However, with post-graduation earnings around $21,200, even this modest debt load represents a significant portion of annual income.
Does Central Oklahoma College's graduation rate justify the investment?
Central Oklahoma College has a 75% graduation rate, which is solid for completing programs. However, the low post-graduation earnings of around $21,200 mean that even successful graduates face limited financial returns on their education investment.