Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas at University of Central Arkansas

UCA's teaching program lands solidly in the middle tier for Arkansas—ranking in the 60th percentile statewide—though it trails the national median by about $1,500 annually. The $26,000 debt load is reasonable for an education degree, representing just over seven months of starting salary. What's notable is that this program performs better within Arkansas than it does nationally, suggesting UCA has carved out a competitive position in the state's teacher preparation landscape, even if Southern Arkansas University graduates are out-earning them by roughly $3,300.

The concerning element here is the flat earnings trajectory: graduates earn essentially the same amount four years out as they do immediately after graduation. This stagnation is common in education due to standardized pay scales, but it means families shouldn't expect significant income growth in those crucial early career years when many graduates are still paying down student loans. With 37% of students receiving Pell grants, UCA serves a substantial population of first-generation and lower-income students who may be particularly sensitive to this limited upward mobility.

For Arkansas families committed to teaching careers, this program offers a path that's competitive within the state at a manageable debt level. Just understand that the financial picture at year one is likely the financial picture at year five—plan accordingly.