Special Education and Teaching at Grand Canyon University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Grand Canyon University's special education program carries debt levels that should raise red flags for families considering this investment. With graduates owing a median of $47,180—more than double both the national average ($26,717) and Arizona's median ($21,250) for this field—students face a concerning financial burden that outweighs their first-year earnings.
The earnings picture adds to these concerns. Starting salaries of $43,258 trail both national and state benchmarks, ranking in just the 40th percentile among Arizona programs. More troubling, earnings actually decline by 4% over four years to $41,637, suggesting limited career advancement opportunities. When compared to Arizona State ($49,882) or Northern Arizona University ($47,610), GCU graduates earn significantly less while carrying substantially more debt.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.09 means graduates owe more than they'll earn in their first year—a problematic scenario for any degree, but especially concerning in education where salaries grow slowly. While special education teachers provide invaluable service, families should seriously consider whether the premium cost at GCU justifies outcomes that lag behind more affordable in-state alternatives. Arizona's public universities offer stronger earning potential with far less debt burden.
Where Grand Canyon University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all special education and teaching bachelors's programs nationally
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 Grand Canyon University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Grand Canyon University graduates earn $43k, placing them in the 44th percentile of all special education and teaching 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 Arizona
Special Education and Teaching bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Arizona (6 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Canyon University | $43,258 | $41,637 | $47,180 | 1.09 |
| Arizona State University Campus Immersion | $49,882 | $47,304 | $19,375 | 0.39 |
| Northern Arizona University | $47,610 | $44,690 | $23,000 | 0.48 |
| University of Arizona | $35,023 | $40,716 | $19,500 | 0.56 |
| National Median | $44,139 | — | $26,717 | 0.61 |
Other Special Education and Teaching Programs in Arizona
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Arizona schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University Campus Immersion Tempe | $12,051 | $49,882 | $19,375 |
| Northern Arizona University Flagstaff | $12,652 | $47,610 | $23,000 |
| University of Arizona Tucson | $13,626 | $35,023 | $19,500 |
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 Grand Canyon University, approximately 43% 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 478 graduates with reported earnings and 649 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.