Special Education and Teaching at Freed-Hardeman University

Tennessee special education programs cluster tightly around $44,000 in first-year earnings, and Freed-Hardeman's outcomes appear to track with this state norm based on comparable programs. The debt picture, however, deserves closer scrutiny. While the estimated $27,000 reflects the national median for similar private institutions, Tennessee programs typically carry debt closer to $19,400—nearly $8,000 less. That difference matters when you're starting at a salary that barely cracks the low-to-mid $40,000s.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.61 sits in manageable territory compared to many education degrees, but this calculation assumes you'll secure a special education position immediately after graduation. Public universities like University of Memphis and Middle Tennessee State appear to produce comparable salary outcomes while their graduates typically carry lower debt loads. The savings from attending a state school could exceed the cost of a reliable used car—money that matters significantly when you're beginning a teaching career.

For families drawn to Freed-Hardeman's faith-based environment, understand that you're likely paying a premium over state alternatives without clear evidence of superior career outcomes. If the campus community justifies that cost difference to your family, the program appears aligned with state standards. But if you're choosing primarily on career preparation, Tennessee's public options merit serious consideration given the similar earning trajectories at substantially lower estimated debt burdens.