California Hair Design Academy (CHDA) : Overview, Courses, Scholarships & Rankings
About California Hair Design Academy
Set in La Mesa's sunny foothills, California Hair Design Academy is known for hands-on training in the beauty arts. Classrooms flow into a studio-salon space with professional tools. The culture is tight-knit and supportive, with clear feedback, a safety-first mindset, and instructors who bring real shop sensibilities. Advising, portfolio help, and practical coaching keep skill-building on point.
Student life leans collaborative with low-key showcases, photo shoots, and teamwork that mirrors a busy salon day. The neighborhood adds energy, from coffee spots and vintage racks to quick access to the wider San Diego scene and the coast. The academy has a reputation for career-centered preparation and local ties, helping students meet working pros and grasp hiring expectations. It feels like a working start to a creative career, not just a class.
Key Institutional Details
Contact & Profile
Academic & Institutional
Degree Programs & Career Salary Prospects
Explore degree programs offered at California Hair Design Academy (CHDA) with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in California. See what you can do with your degree and expected earnings after graduation.
Personal Services (5)
Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts and Personal Care
12.0401
Cosmetology/Cosmetologist, General.
(Cert<1y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
39-5012 | Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists | $43,460 | $43,140 | -$320 (-0.7%) |
39-5091 | Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance | $75,410 | $120,590 | +$45,180 (+59.9%) |
39-5092 | Manicurists and Pedicurists | $36,910 | $35,520 | -$1,390 (-3.8%) |
39-5093 | Shampooers | $30,830 | $35,750 | +$4,920 (+16%) |
39-5094 | Skincare Specialists | $48,670 | $46,730 | -$1,940 (-4%) |
12.0402
Barbering/Barber.
(Cert<1y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
39-5011 | Barbers | $47,800 | $44,380 | -$3,420 (-7.2%) |
12.0409
Aesthetician/Esthetician and Skin Care Specialist.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
39-5094 | Skincare Specialists | $48,670 | $46,730 | -$1,940 (-4%) |
12.0410
Nail Technician/Specialist and Manicurist.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
39-5092 | Manicurists and Pedicurists | $36,910 | $35,520 | -$1,390 (-3.8%) |
12.0413
Cosmetology, Barber/Styling, and Nail Instructor.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
39-5011 | Barbers | $47,800 | $44,380 | -$3,420 (-7.2%) |
39-5012 | Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists | $43,460 | $43,140 | -$320 (-0.7%) |
Tuition, Fees & Estimated Costs
Overview of tuition rates, housing, and other annual education expenses for undergraduate and graduate students
Financial Aid & Student Support
Summary of scholarships, grants, student loans, and financial aid statistics for undergraduate students
Student Success Metrics
Graduation rates and post-graduation earnings to help assess student outcomes and long-term value of education.
Loan Burden & Repayment Outcomes
Breakdown of loan repayment rates and student debt levels by income and dependency status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about California Hair Design Academy (CHDA)
What academic programs and degree levels does California Hair Design Academy offer?
California Hair Design Academy (CHDA) offers 7 academic programs across 1 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Certificate (1-2 yrs), Other Award.
Most popular program areas include:
- Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts and Personal Care (5 programs)
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated, not all offered programs.
What financial aid and scholarships are available at California Hair Design Academy?
California Hair Design Academy (CHDA) provides financial aid to 21% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $4,900 and average loans of $5,255.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
- Pell grants: $5,179
- Institutional grants: $866
- Federal loans: $5,255
The university supports 43 students with grants and 33 students with loans annually.
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Financial aid amounts and percentages may vary by program, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.
What is the average salary for California Hair Design Academy graduates?
California Hair Design Academy (CHDA) graduates earn a median salary of $15,702 after 6 years and $19,347 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $8,126 (25th percentile) to $40,931 (75th percentile), with top earners reaching $46,200 (90th percentile).
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data reflects graduates who received federal financial aid (approximately 60% of all graduates). Actual earnings may vary significantly based on program, location, and individual circumstances.
Related Universities


