Education at Le Moyne-Owen College

Le Moyne-Owen serves a predominantly low-income student population (71% receive Pell grants), and the estimated debt load of $27,000 for an education degree aligns closely with what teacher preparation programs typically produce nationally. Based on comparable bachelor's programs in education across the country, first-year earnings around $38,660 put graduates slightly above Tennessee's median for education majors ($36,540), though starting teacher salaries in Memphis can vary significantly by district and position.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.70 falls within manageable territory for education graduates, who benefit from predictable salary schedules and loan forgiveness programs like Public Service Loan Forgiveness. However, these estimates don't reflect Le Moyne-Owen's specific graduate outcomes, and the school's 97% admission rate suggests it serves students who may face additional barriers to completion and career placement. Tennessee teaching salaries have historically lagged national averages, which matters more than first-year figures when considering long-term career earnings.

For families weighing this investment, the key question is whether Le Moyne-Owen provides the support systems—student teaching placements, licensure exam prep, job placement assistance—that translate credentials into actual teaching positions. The estimated numbers suggest typical education program economics, but without reported outcomes, you're relying on the institution's track record with similar students rather than hard evidence of graduate success.