Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas at Carson-Newman University

Carson-Newman graduates earn above the Tennessee median for this teaching specialty—hitting the 60th percentile among in-state programs—though slightly below the national benchmark. With first-year earnings of $42,222 and debt of $25,075, the debt load equals just over seven months of income, a manageable ratio in education where starting salaries rarely impress but long-term stability matters.

The earnings picture stays flat rather than growing, which is typical for teachers who hit standardized pay scales early. What's more concerning is the small graduate pool (fewer than 30), making these numbers less reliable as predictors. Still, Carson-Newman's graduates outpace competitors like Memphis and Lane College while staying nearly $3,000 behind top-performer Lee University.

For Tennessee families, this represents a middle-tier option with reasonable debt and decent in-state placement. The 39% Pell grant population suggests the school serves students who need affordable paths to teaching careers, and the debt-to-earnings ratio supports that mission. Just recognize that teaching salaries don't reward institutional prestige—your child's career trajectory will depend more on licensure, location, and subject area than where they earned this degree. If they're committed to teaching in Tennessee, Carson-Newman provides solid preparation without crushing debt.