Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas at Ozarks Technical Community College

Ozarks Technical's teacher education associate program outperforms the national median by about $1,400 in first-year earnings, placing it at the 75th percentile nationally—solid positioning for a community college credential. However, the small sample size (fewer than 30 graduates) means these numbers could shift considerably with more data. The $10,119 in typical debt sits slightly above both state and national medians, though the 0.48 debt-to-earnings ratio remains manageable compared to many associate programs.

The 45% earnings jump from year one to year four suggests graduates either advance in paraprofessional roles or use this as a stepping stone to bachelor's programs and teacher certification. Still, Missouri offers a wider range: Three Rivers College graduates earn $30,830 after the same degree, nearly $10,000 more than Ozarks Tech. Within Missouri's 10 schools offering this program, Ozarks Tech lands right at the state median, so it's neither a standout nor a laggard.

For parents whose student plans to continue to a four-year teaching degree, this provides affordable entry into education coursework. For those hoping to work immediately as paraprofessionals or classroom aides, the first-year earnings of $21,220 reflect that reality—these are support roles, not teaching positions. The debt level won't derail long-term plans, but families should understand this associate degree is most valuable as part one of a longer credential path.