Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas at Kean University

Among New Jersey's teacher education programs, Kean graduates start $10,500 below the state median—a significant gap that places them in just the 25th percentile statewide. While the $40,929 starting salary isn't shocking for teaching, nearby William Paterson and The College of New Jersey send their education graduates into the workforce earning over $15,000 more annually. For a family paying similar tuition costs at a New Jersey public institution, that's a meaningful difference in their child's early financial stability.

The positive news is trajectory: earnings jump 41% by year four, reaching $57,820. This growth suggests Kean graduates do eventually achieve competitive salaries, likely benefiting from New Jersey's structured teacher salary schedules once they establish themselves in districts. The relatively modest debt load of $29,625 (5th percentile nationally) means graduates aren't crushed by loan payments during those lean early years, with debt-to-earnings below the national average.

Still, the initial earnings gap matters. Those first years establish financial habits—whether graduates can afford their own apartment, start saving, or make required loan payments comfortably. If your child is set on teaching in New Jersey, programs like The College of New Jersey or William Paterson appear to offer stronger entry points into higher-paying districts. Kean can work if finances demand it and you're confident your child will stick it out through the lower-earning early career phase, but it's not the strongest launching pad for New Jersey educators.