Analysis
Minnesota education programs typically produce stronger outcomes than what comparable programs nationally suggest for Augsburg graduates. While peer institutions across the country point to first-year earnings around $38,660 and debt near $27,000, Minnesota's median sits notably higher at $42,658 with lower debt at $21,875. The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities demonstrates what's achievable at the top end locally ($48,339), though even Hamline's reported $36,976 falls below the national estimate being used here.
The estimated 0.70 debt-to-earnings ratio falls in reasonable territory for education degrees—a field where earnings start modest but offer stability and benefits that raw numbers don't capture. Teaching positions in Minnesota schools generally come with solid healthcare, pension contributions, and predictable salary schedules. The $27,000 debt estimate translates to manageable monthly payments for a teacher's salary, particularly in the Twin Cities metro area where Augsburg's location provides access to numerous school districts.
What matters most here is recognizing these are projections based on similar programs elsewhere, not Augsburg's actual track record. With half of students receiving Pell grants, the school serves many first-generation college students who may face different financial outcomes. Before committing, contact Augsburg's education department directly to understand their graduates' actual placement rates, starting salaries in local districts, and typical debt loads—information they should be able to provide even if it's not published federally.
Where Augsburg University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all education bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Minnesota
Education bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Minnesota (14 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $43,942 | $38,660* | — | $27,000* | — | |
| $16,488 | $48,339* | — | $18,750* | 0.39 | |
| $48,311 | $36,976* | — | $25,000* | 0.68 | |
| National Median | — | $38,660* | — | $26,522* | 0.69 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with education graduates
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Augsburg University, approximately 52% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 66 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.