Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods at Francis Marion University

Francis Marion's teacher education program starts graduates at $39,122—below both the state median ($40,233) and national average ($41,809)—but the real concern is what happens next. By year four, earnings drop to $35,186, a 10% decline that runs counter to the typical career trajectory. Among South Carolina's 32 education programs, this ranks at the 40th percentile, trailing schools like USC Beaufort ($44,659) and Winthrop ($41,708) by substantial margins.

The positive news is debt: at $29,000, graduates borrow less than both state and national medians, with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.74 that's manageable for a teaching salary. Nearly 40% of students receive Pell grants, suggesting the program serves students who need affordable paths into education. However, the earnings decline raises questions about job placement, retention in the field, or advancement opportunities for graduates.

For families committed to teaching in South Carolina, this program offers a relatively low-debt entry point, but expect starting salaries below most state competitors and be prepared for potential income stagnation. If your child could access higher-performing SC programs like Winthrop or College of Charleston, the $5,000-6,000 salary difference would justify modest additional borrowing.