Median Earnings (1yr)
$41,063
40th percentile (40th in GA)
Median Debt
$27,000
3% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.66
Manageable
Sample Size
36
Adequate data

Analysis

Georgia Southern's education program sits squarely in the middle of the pack—both nationally and within Georgia—but delivers reasonable value at a manageable price. Starting at $41,063, graduates earn slightly below the state median of $41,582 and fall in the 40th percentile among Georgia's 27 programs. More accomplished students might look at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College ($50,429) or Kennesaw State ($45,243), where starting salaries run $4,000-$9,000 higher. However, Georgia Southern's $27,000 median debt is precisely at the state average, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.66 that most teachers can handle.

The 18% earnings growth to $48,234 by year four follows typical teacher salary progressions in Georgia. While this won't produce financial windfalls, it represents stable, predictable income—exactly what teaching careers offer. The moderate sample size suggests consistent outcomes across cohorts.

For families prioritizing affordability over prestige, this program works. The debt load won't overwhelm a teacher's salary, and Georgia Southern's accessible admission standards (90% acceptance rate) make it attainable for most students. Just understand you're choosing security over maximizing earnings potential—there are clearly stronger education programs within Georgia if your child qualifies for admission.

Where Georgia Southern University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all teacher education and professional development, specific subject areas bachelors's programs nationally

Georgia Southern UniversityOther teacher education and professional development, specific subject areas programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Georgia Southern University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Georgia Southern University graduates earn $41k, placing them in the 40th percentile of all teacher education and professional development, specific subject areas bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia

Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (27 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Georgia Southern University$41,063$48,234$27,0000.66
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College$50,429—$26,2500.52
Kennesaw State University$45,243$47,255$26,5000.59
University of West Georgia$43,308$43,482$27,0000.62
University of Georgia$43,129$46,008$20,7500.48
University of North Georgia$42,102$45,093——
National Median$43,082—$26,2210.61

Other Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas Programs in Georgia

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Georgia schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College
Tifton
$3,195$50,429$26,250
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw
$5,786$45,243$26,500
University of West Georgia
Carrollton
$5,971$43,308$27,000
University of Georgia
Athens
$11,180$43,129$20,750
University of North Georgia
Dahlonega
$5,009$42,102—

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Georgia Southern University, approximately 35% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.

Sample Size: Based on 36 graduates with reported earnings and 47 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.