Analysis
A $27,000 debt load for a teaching degree becomes significant when first-year earnings hover around $38,660—roughly what education majors nationwide typically earn starting out. Based on comparable education programs nationally, this debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.70 means graduates would owe about 70% of their first year's salary, a burden that feels particularly heavy on a teacher's starting income.
The estimated figures here tell a familiar story across teacher preparation programs: modest earnings paired with moderate debt. What makes Bob Jones University's situation harder to assess is the lack of reported outcomes from South Carolina's other education programs, leaving you without local comparisons. The $38,660 estimate aligns with national norms, but SC teaching salaries and local hiring conditions could paint a different picture—one that isn't captured in these peer-program estimates.
For a parent weighing this investment, the practical math matters: $27,000 in loans on a teacher's salary means years of careful budgeting, potentially delaying other financial goals. Before committing, you'll want to dig into Bob Jones's actual placement rates with South Carolina school districts, whether graduates qualify for loan forgiveness programs, and how their education program specifically prepares students for the state's teaching requirements. The estimates suggest a workable but tight financial picture—confirmation of the details is essential.
Where Bob Jones University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all education bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Education bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $23,400 | $38,660* | — | $27,000* | — | |
| $8,886 | $68,730* | — | $26,556* | 0.39 | |
| $12,186 | $60,288* | — | —* | — | |
| $11,728 | $57,410* | — | $13,250* | 0.23 | |
| $19,568 | $56,397* | $40,429 | —* | — | |
| $44,850 | $55,579* | $54,660 | $27,000* | 0.49 | |
| 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 Bob Jones University, approximately 29% 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.