Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas at Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University's teaching program graduates with a small sample size show earnings that fall below both the state median ($44,450) and sit in just the 40th percentile among Arizona programs—meaning most other teacher prep programs in the state deliver stronger starting salaries. While the $42,566 first-year median isn't far off the national benchmark, Arizona teachers typically earn more, and nearby Northern Arizona University graduates start $4,000 higher. The debt load of $25,250 matches the state median but represents 62% of first-year earnings, a relatively manageable burden for the education field.

The 12% earnings growth to $47,520 by year four is positive and slightly outpaces typical teacher salary schedules, though the small sample size (under 30 graduates) makes these projections less reliable. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.59 won't crush a new teacher financially, but the below-average placement within Arizona's competitive teaching market suggests graduates may face challenges securing the higher-paying positions.

For families prioritizing teaching careers in Arizona, this program delivers outcomes that lag behind in-state alternatives like NAU or University of Arizona. Unless there are compelling non-financial reasons to choose Grand Canyon—such as program format or location—prospective teachers should explore these stronger-performing state options that demonstrate clearer paths to above-median earnings in Arizona's education market.