Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods at Rasmussen University-Kansas

At $28,038 in first-year earnings, Rasmussen's teaching certificate program matches the national median exactly—but that's not necessarily cause for celebration when you're comparing against 441 other programs nationwide. The more promising angle here is Kansas-specific: this program ranks in the 60th percentile among the state's three providers, suggesting it outperforms most local alternatives. The relatively modest debt load of $12,358 translates to a 0.44 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates carry less than half a year's salary in loans, which is manageable for an entry credential.

However, there's a reality check needed about these earnings numbers. $28,000 annually is tight for anyone supporting themselves, let alone a family. The program primarily serves students from lower-income backgrounds (57% receive Pell grants), so affordability matters—and the below-state-median debt helps there. But your child should view this certificate as either a stepping stone toward a full teaching degree with higher earning potential, or as a credential for paraprofessional roles where career advancement will require additional education.

The investment makes sense if this is part of a larger educational plan and your child has clear employment prospects in Kansas schools. As a standalone endpoint, these earnings suggest financial struggle ahead.