Choosing a beauty school is about more than learning the technical skills. It’s about where your education can take you.
The Numbers Behind a Douglas J Education
Douglas J Institute reports graduation, licensure and employment outcomes to the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences (NACCAS). These results provide one way to measure how students progress from education to licensure and employment.
Ann Arbor
- Graduation Rate 92%
- Licensure Rate 95%
- Placement Rate 59%
East Lansing
- Graduation Rate 92%
- Licensure Rate 92%
- Placement Rate 74%
Grand Rapids
- Graduation Rate 91%
- Licensure Rate 99%
- Placement Rate 75%
Royal Oak
- Graduation Rate 93%
- Licensure Rate 95%
- Placement Rate 71%
Knoxville
- Graduation Rate 83%
- Licensure Rate 100%
- Placement Rate 68%
*Graduation, licensure, and placement rates are based on 2024 graduates and reported to NACCAS. Placement support is provided but employment cannot be guaranteed.
Campus Highlight: Royal Oak
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Graduation Rate
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Licensure Rate
Other campuses also show strong outcomes, exceeding national averages in graduation, licensure, and placement.
Douglas J Institute takes pride in the ongoing success of our students. Graduation and job placement data demonstrate the strength of our programs, dedicated faculty, and the high demand for our graduates in the beauty and wellness industry.
*Graduation, licensure, and placement rates are based on 2024 graduates and reported to NACCAS. Placement support is provided but employment cannot be guaranteed.
Where a Douglas J Education Can Take You
There’s no single path after beauty school. Douglas J graduates have built careers behind the chair, managed salons, become educators, opened businesses, worked in fashion and entertainment, and pursued opportunities across the country.
Student Success Story: Kristen Smetek
Ann Arbor Institute Graduate | Master Stylist, California From night student to Master Stylist in sunny Southern...
Student Success Story: A Journey of Growth, Education & Passion Behind the Chair
At Douglas J, we’re proud to spotlight alumni who’ve taken their education and passion for the beauty industry and...
Student Success Story: Kevin Pelham
Master Stylist + Salon Manager | Luxe Lab Salon, Santa MonicaCampus Attended: Ann Arbor From receptionist to master...
Prepared for the Professional Beauty Industry
Our relationships with salons, spas and beauty industry professionals help us understand what employers are looking for in new talent. Hear directly from industry professionals about their experience hiring and working with Douglas J graduates.
– Marielle, Owner of Coiffeteria Salon
“I absolutely love hiring graduates from Douglas J Institute. They are so well trained, so well versed. They learn not only about hair, but how to really take care of the guests and to see their needs. Plus, they actually, use the same products as we do, so that helps makes our transition seamless. They’re very professional…just AWESOME!”
Student Support & Career Success
From your first conversation with admissions to post-graduation guidance, Douglas J Institute takes a structured, student-first approach:
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Admissions Guidance: Matches students to the right program and informs them of career opportunities.
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Student Support: Tracks progress, attendance, and balances school with personal responsibilities.
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Academic & Educator Support: Personalized plans, one-on-one sessions, and state board run-throughs build confidence.
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Licensure Prep: Extra practice and review for graduates needing additional support.
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Career Exposure & Placement: Industry demos, career fairs, and alumni networks connect students to job opportunities.
A Reputation Built Through Experience
For more than 60 years, Douglas J has been part of the professional beauty industry, preparing students with hands-on education, industry connections and experiences that extend beyond the classroom.
Accredited Education
Education that meets established standards for beauty career training.
Industry Connections
Relationships with salons, spas, employers and beauty professionals
Professional Training
Hands-on training with professional products, tools and a student kit included with tuition.
Beyond the Classroom
Career fairs, competitions, guest educators and industry events help prepare students for their careers
Ten Douglas J students were selected for the nationally recognized Beacon Student Program, connecting future beauty professionals with industry leaders, education and career-building experiences. Read Their Story
Your CAREER, Your HOURS, Your HUSTLE
Cosmetology offers flexibility, creativity, and the chance to earn great hourly pay doing what you love.
A career in cosmetology isn’t just about style—it’s about freedom. With the ability to set your own schedule and the potential to earn a strong hourly wage, this path puts you in control. Whether you're behind the chair, working freelance, or growing your own brand, a cosmetology license opens the door to a rewarding and flexible future.
Your Passion Can Become Your Profession
The demand for beauty professionals continues to rise nationwide. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists to grow faster than average over the next decade, with more than 84,000 job openings projected each year.
If you’re ready to build a creative, people-focused career, now is a great time to get started.
Your Career Story Could Start Here
A career in beauty starts with the right education, hands-on experience and support. Discover the Douglas J program that fits your goals and see what your future could look like.