La James College of Hairstyling and Cosmetology : Overview, Courses, Scholarships & Rankings
About La James College of Hairstyling and Cosmetology
La James College of Hairstyling and Cosmetology in Mason City is known for hands-on learning in hair design, skincare, nails, and makeup, with a strong emphasis on customer care and salon etiquette. Students practice in a supervised, client-serving salon setting, backed by classrooms and labs that feel like real workspaces. Advising, licensure prep, and career guidance help keep goals on track. The culture is close knit, professional, and creative. And there's an easy Midwestern warmth that makes it feel welcoming.
Student life often revolves around style showcases, community events, and portfolio building. Mason City's downtown arts scene, local shops, and nearby lakes give students low key ways to unwind, with plenty of chances to meet real clients and employers. The college has a reputation for connecting students with working pros through guest demonstrations and salon visits, and for teaching the business side of the craft. Distinguishing feature here is the steady flow of real client experience, which builds confidence fast and feels like the industry, not a classroom.
Key Institutional Details
Contact & Profile
Academic & Institutional
Degree Programs & Career Salary Prospects
Explore degree programs offered at La James College of Hairstyling and Cosmetology with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in Iowa. See what you can do with your degree and expected earnings after graduation.
Personal Services (3)
Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts and Personal Care
12.0401
Cosmetology/Cosmetologist, General.
(Assoc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Iowa
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Iowa Avg | IA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 39-5012 | Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists | $43,460 | $40,570 | -$2,890 (-6.6%) |
| 39-5091 | Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance | $75,410 | N/A | N/A |
| 39-5092 | Manicurists and Pedicurists | $36,910 | $35,200 | -$1,710 (-4.6%) |
| 39-5093 | Shampooers | $30,830 | N/A | N/A |
| 39-5094 | Skincare Specialists | $48,670 | $55,980 | +$7,310 (+15%) |
12.0409
Aesthetician/Esthetician and Skin Care Specialist.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Iowa
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Iowa Avg | IA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 39-5094 | Skincare Specialists | $48,670 | $55,980 | +$7,310 (+15%) |
12.0410
Nail Technician/Specialist and Manicurist.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Iowa
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Iowa Avg | IA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 39-5092 | Manicurists and Pedicurists | $36,910 | $35,200 | -$1,710 (-4.6%) |
Health (1)
Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice
51.3501
Massage Therapy/Therapeutic Massage.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Iowa
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Iowa Avg | IA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1071 | Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary | $137,900 | $93,560 | -$44,340 (-32.2%) |
| 31-9011 | Massage Therapists | $63,430 | $61,540 | -$1,890 (-3%) |
Education (1)
Educational Sciences, Teaching Methods and Pedagogy
13.1399
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas, Other.
(Cert<1y)
Graduate Career Earnings in Iowa
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Iowa Avg | IA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1081 | Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $78,500 | $57,630 | -$20,870 (-26.6%) |
| 25-3099 | Teachers and Instructors, All Other | $71,610 | $50,130 | -$21,480 (-30%) |
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 La James College of Hairstyling and Cosmetology
What academic programs and degree levels does La James College of Hairstyling and Cosmetology offer?
La James College of Hairstyling and Cosmetology offers 8 academic programs across 3 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Certificate (1-2 yrs), Certificate (≥2 yrs), Other Award.
Most popular program areas include:
- Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts and Personal Care (3 programs)
- Educational Sciences, Teaching Methods and Pedagogy (1 programs)
- Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice (1 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 La James College of Hairstyling and Cosmetology?
La James College of Hairstyling and Cosmetology provides financial aid to 84% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $5,451 and average loans of $6,004.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
- Pell grants: $5,534
- State/Local grants: $1,333
- Institutional grants: $941
- Federal loans: $6,004
The university supports 69 students with grants and 86 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 La James College of Hairstyling and Cosmetology graduates?
La James College of Hairstyling and Cosmetology graduates earn a median salary of $20,024 after 6 years and $27,484 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $12,813 (25th percentile) to $38,953 (75th 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.
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