Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods at Brenau University

Brenau's education program faces a significant debt problem that overshadows its otherwise typical outcomes. With $38,250 in median debt—nearly $12,000 above the Georgia median—graduates carry roughly 47% more debt than their peers at other state education programs. That debt load is substantial enough to place this program in the 95th percentile nationally, meaning only 5% of similar programs saddle students with more borrowing.

The earnings themselves aren't alarming at $40,980, sitting just slightly below Georgia's median of $41,634 and the national benchmark. The real concern is the combination: graduates earn about what education majors typically make, but they're paying far more for that credential. Compare this to Georgia's stronger public options—University of North Georgia and Georgia State both deliver $6,000+ higher starting salaries with similar or lower debt loads. Even Georgia Gwinnett College, with its open admission policy, produces education graduates earning $7,200 more annually.

For families considering this path, the math is straightforward: your child will likely start their teaching career carrying debt that nearly equals their entire first-year salary, while peers from other Georgia programs enter the workforce with more manageable obligations. Given that Brenau serves a substantial population of Pell-eligible students (47%), this debt burden is particularly problematic. Unless Brenau offers unique program features or geographic convenience that justify the premium, Georgia's public universities present better value for future educators.