Median Earnings (1yr)
$43,262
61st percentile (60th in MA)
Median Debt
$18,000
31% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.42
Manageable
Sample Size
21
Limited data

Analysis

Boston College's teacher education program demonstrates solid mid-career earnings growth, with graduates seeing income rise from $43,262 to $57,492 over four years—a 33% increase that outpaces typical teaching trajectories. The program ranks around the 60th percentile both nationally and within Massachusetts, performing respectably but trailing several state schools like Assumption University ($48,641 starting) and Stonehill College ($44,027).

The standout feature here is the debt picture: at $18,000, BC graduates carry significantly less burden than the $27,000 Massachusetts median and $26,000 national median. This creates a manageable 0.42 debt-to-earnings ratio that's particularly favorable for the teaching profession, where starting salaries tend to be modest. For a highly selective institution (16% admission rate), this suggests BC provides meaningful financial aid to education majors.

However, the small sample size—fewer than 30 graduates—means these numbers could shift considerably year to year. BC's teacher preparation may serve a niche population well, but if your child is certain about teaching, they might find comparable outcomes with less competitive admissions at strong state options like Bridgewater State or Worcester State. The BC advantage lies primarily in the low debt load and strong mid-career growth, though those benefits need to justify the stress of gaining admission to one of the nation's most selective universities.

Where Boston College Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all teacher education and professional development, specific levels and methods bachelors's programs nationally

Boston CollegeOther teacher education and professional development, specific levels and methods programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Boston College graduates compare to all programs nationally

Boston College graduates earn $43k, placing them in the 61th percentile of all teacher education and professional development, specific levels and methods bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts

Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (32 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Boston College$43,262$57,492$18,0000.42
Assumption University$48,641—$27,0000.56
Stonehill College$44,027—$26,9900.61
Gordon College$43,989$39,465$26,9750.61
Bridgewater State University$43,800$46,339$27,0000.62
Worcester State University$42,313$34,715$22,9710.54
National Median$41,809—$26,0000.62

Other Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods Programs in Massachusetts

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Massachusetts schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Assumption University
Worcester
$49,414$48,641$27,000
Stonehill College
Easton
$54,500$44,027$26,990
Gordon College
Wenham
$28,100$43,989$26,975
Bridgewater State University
Bridgewater
$11,389$43,800$27,000
Worcester State University
Worcester
$11,286$42,313$22,971

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 Boston College, approximately 13% 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.

Sample Size: Based on 21 graduates with reported earnings and 47 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.