Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville's teacher education graduates earn notably less than other Illinois programs—roughly $5,300 below the state median and landing in just the 40th percentile statewide. While the debt load of $26,250 seems manageable on paper with a 0.68 ratio, the bigger concern is what happens after that first paycheck: earnings essentially flatline over the next four years at around $38,800. Compare this to top Illinois programs like UIC ($60,917) or Loyola Chicago ($55,652), and the gap becomes substantial—we're talking about $17,000 to $22,000 less annually for similar work.

The stagnant earnings pattern is particularly troubling for teachers, who typically see salary increases through continuing education credits and experience. That this program's graduates aren't seeing that trajectory suggests they may be entering less competitive school districts or facing challenges in career advancement. The school's 97% admission rate and below-average SAT scores may signal that networking opportunities and alumni connections—critical for landing positions in better-paying districts—aren't as strong here.

For families considering this program, the math is straightforward: you'd be paying near-median debt for below-median outcomes in a state where significantly better teacher education programs exist. Unless there are compelling personal reasons to attend SIUE specifically, prospective teachers should explore Illinois programs with stronger earning trajectories, particularly those in the Chicago area where district salaries are substantially higher.