Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas at Delta State University

Delta State's teacher education program lands graduates in a tough spot: earning $34,177 in the first year—well below both the state median ($39,558) and national benchmark ($43,082). While this ranks at the 40th percentile among Mississippi's 13 similar programs, it's only in the 17th percentile nationally. The gap is significant: graduates here earn about $5,400 less than peers at Mississippi State and nearly $19,000 less than William Carey graduates. The debt load of $22,500, though slightly below state averages, still represents two-thirds of that first year's salary.

For families considering this program, the math is challenging. Starting at $34,000 makes loan repayment harder, especially in a profession where salary growth tends to be incremental and tied to years of service rather than market forces. Mississippi's teacher salaries are already among the nation's lowest, and this program positions graduates at the lower end even within the state.

The tradeoff here is clear: Delta State offers open admission and serves a population where 43% receive Pell grants, providing access to teaching careers for first-generation students. But parents should know their child will likely start $5,000+ behind peers from other Mississippi programs while carrying similar debt. If teaching in Mississippi is the goal, this path works—just expect a tighter financial picture in those crucial early career years when loan payments begin.