The Salon Professional Academy (TSPA) : Overview, Courses, Scholarships & Rankings
About The Salon Professional Academy
Set near the Black Hills, The Salon Professional Academy in Rapid City is known for hands-on, client-centered training that blends craft, creativity, and business basics. The campus feels like a working studio, with practice floors, classroom labs, and photo-ready spaces to build skill and confidence. Advising and portfolio guidance, plus friendly front-desk practice, round out the support.
Student life leans collaborative and upbeat. You'll see classmates trading tips, refining consultations, and teaming up for creative showcases that feel like mini pro gigs. Career prep is woven into daily work through real-world service standards and connections with local salons and spas. And the setting helps: Rapid City's downtown and nearby wedding scene offer meaningful client experience. Outdoorsy students find quick escapes into the Black Hills. The vibe is practical, welcoming, and a little fearless.
Key Institutional Details
Contact & Profile
Academic & Institutional
Degree Programs & Career Salary Prospects
Explore degree programs offered at The Salon Professional Academy (TSPA) with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in South Dakota. 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.
(Cert<1y)
Graduate Career Earnings in South Dakota
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | South Dakota Avg | SD vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 39-5012 | Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists | $43,460 | $52,470 | +$9,010 (+20.7%) |
| 39-5091 | Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance | $75,410 | N/A | N/A |
| 39-5092 | Manicurists and Pedicurists | $36,910 | $42,090 | +$5,180 (+14%) |
| 39-5093 | Shampooers | $30,830 | N/A | N/A |
| 39-5094 | Skincare Specialists | $48,670 | $32,850 | -$15,820 (-32.5%) |
12.0409
Aesthetician/Esthetician and Skin Care Specialist.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in South Dakota
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | South Dakota Avg | SD vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 39-5094 | Skincare Specialists | $48,670 | $32,850 | -$15,820 (-32.5%) |
12.0410
Nail Technician/Specialist and Manicurist.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in South Dakota
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | South Dakota Avg | SD vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 39-5092 | Manicurists and Pedicurists | $36,910 | $42,090 | +$5,180 (+14%) |
Health (1)
Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice
51.3501
Massage Therapy/Therapeutic Massage.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in South Dakota
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | South Dakota Avg | SD vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1071 | Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary | $137,900 | $92,020 | -$45,880 (-33.3%) |
| 31-9011 | Massage Therapists | $63,430 | $41,990 | -$21,440 (-33.8%) |
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 The Salon Professional Academy (TSPA)
What academic programs and degree levels does The Salon Professional Academy offer?
The Salon Professional Academy (TSPA) offers 6 academic programs across 2 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 (3 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 The Salon Professional Academy?
The Salon Professional Academy (TSPA) provides financial aid to 27% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $5,715 and average loans of $5,718.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
- Pell grants: $5,715
- Federal loans: $5,718
The university supports 12 students with grants and 21 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 The Salon Professional Academy graduates?
The Salon Professional Academy (TSPA) graduates earn a median salary of $25,321 after 6 years and $23,641 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $10,834 (25th percentile) to $35,782 (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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