Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods at Plymouth State University

Plymouth State's teacher education program shows earnings that fall slightly short of both state and national benchmarks, landing in the 35th percentile nationally and 40th within New Hampshire. Graduates earn about $39,600 in their first year—roughly $2,000 below the state median and $2,200 below the national average. More concerning is the earnings trajectory: rather than growing with experience, salaries actually dip to $38,800 by year four, suggesting graduates may be hitting their ceiling early in their careers.

The financial picture does have one bright spot: debt loads are relatively manageable at $27,000, placing this program in the 25th percentile nationally (meaning 75% of similar programs carry higher debt). The 0.68 debt-to-earnings ratio is workable for someone committed to teaching, though parents should recognize that New Hampshire teacher salaries lag behind neighboring states. Within New Hampshire, Keene State and Southern New Hampshire University both produce graduates earning $2,000-3,000 more annually for similar debt.

For families considering Plymouth State, this is a viable path into teaching but not the strongest option in the state. The moderate debt won't be crushing, but the below-average earnings and stagnant salary growth mean graduates should be prepared for tight budgets early in their careers. If teaching is the goal and Plymouth State offers other compelling reasons (location, community, scholarship aid), it can work—just know that nearby alternatives deliver better financial outcomes.