Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas at University of Akron Main Campus

Starting at $35,111, University of Akron's teacher education graduates earn significantly below both the national median ($43,082) and Ohio's state median ($37,119). Landing in the 19th percentile nationally means four out of five similar programs produce better outcomes. Within Ohio, this program sits right at the 40th percentile—middle of the pack among 51 in-state options, but notably trailing the state's stronger teacher prep programs at UC, Ohio State, and Bowling Green, where graduates start $6,000-$8,000 higher.

The $27,000 debt load matches both state and national medians, which means the real concern is the earnings side of the equation. A 0.77 debt-to-earnings ratio isn't alarming for teaching (where starting salaries are inherently modest), and graduates do see meaningful growth to $42,265 by year four—suggesting decent career progression once established. However, that four-year mark still falls short of what top Ohio programs deliver at the starting line.

For Ohio families committed to teaching, this program offers an affordable entry point into the profession, but graduates will face tighter finances early on compared to peers from stronger in-state alternatives. If your child has admission options at Cincinnati, Ohio State, or Bowling Green, those programs demonstrate clearer return on investment. Akron works as a backup, particularly for students who need its accessibility, but it's not the competitive choice for teacher preparation in Ohio.