Median Earnings (1yr)
$45,327
68th percentile (60th in ID)
Median Debt
$29,000
11% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.64
Manageable
Sample Size
30
Adequate data

Analysis

University of Idaho's teaching program comes with a debt burden slightly above the state median, but the earnings easily justify it. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.64, graduates manage their loans comfortably compared to most education programs nationally. That $29,000 in debt ranks in just the 9th percentile nationally—meaning 91% of similar programs leave students with more debt.

The $45,327 starting salary places graduates in the 68th percentile nationally and 60th percentile among Idaho programs, outearning peers at BYU-Idaho and Boise State. For families concerned about keeping costs down while staying in-state, this represents solid value. The modest earnings growth to $46,406 after four years is typical for teaching positions, which have structured salary schedules rather than merit-based increases.

The practical reality: Your child will likely earn a stable, middle-class income with manageable debt payments. If they're committed to teaching—particularly in Idaho where these earnings go further—this program delivers what it promises without the financial strain many education graduates face elsewhere.

Where University of Idaho Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all teacher education and professional development, specific subject areas bachelors's programs nationally

University of IdahoOther teacher education and professional development, specific subject areas programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How University of Idaho graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Idaho graduates earn $45k, placing them in the 68th percentile of all teacher education and professional development, specific subject areas bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Idaho

Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Idaho (7 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Idaho$45,327$46,406$29,0000.64
Brigham Young University-Idaho$42,094$43,390$13,6800.32
Boise State University$41,141$43,615$27,8800.68
Idaho State University$35,629$44,780$23,1990.65
National Median$43,082—$26,2210.61

Other Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas Programs in Idaho

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Idaho schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Brigham Young University-Idaho
Rexburg
$4,656$42,094$13,680
Boise State University
Boise
$8,782$41,141$27,880
Idaho State University
Pocatello
$8,356$35,629$23,199

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Idaho, approximately 23% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.

Sample Size: Based on 30 graduates with reported earnings and 40 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.