Median Earnings (1yr)
$41,672
49th percentile (60th in KY)
Median Debt
$23,584
9% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.57
Manageable
Sample Size
112
Adequate data

Analysis

University of Louisville's teacher education program produces slightly above-average earnings for Kentucky but places graduates in the middle of the pack nationally. First-year teachers earn $41,672—about $4,000 more than the Kentucky median but essentially matching the national average. Among Kentucky's 28 teacher education programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile, trailing only the University of Kentucky by a few hundred dollars among major state schools.

The concerning element here is minimal earnings growth: graduates see just a 1% increase over four years, reaching $42,115. This stagnation is typical in teaching, where pay scales move slowly, but it means the initial salary is essentially what parents should expect for the mid-career outlook. The debt load of $23,584 translates to a manageable 0.57 debt-to-earnings ratio, though it's slightly higher than what top-tier programs in the state achieve. With robust sample size confirming these figures, families can trust this data represents a reliable picture.

For Kentucky families committed to teaching careers, Louisville delivers competitive preparation at a reasonable debt level. The earnings won't significantly increase over time, but the program costs less to attend than several private alternatives while producing better outcomes than most in-state options. If your child is passionate about education, this represents a solid in-state choice—just ensure they understand that $42,000 will likely remain their earning ceiling for years to come.

Where University of Louisville Stands

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

University of LouisvilleOther teacher education and professional development, specific levels and methods 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 Louisville graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Louisville graduates earn $42k, placing them in the 49th percentile of all teacher education and professional development, specific levels and methods 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 Kentucky

Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kentucky (28 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Louisville$41,672$42,115$23,5840.57
University of Kentucky$41,312$39,718$23,2500.56
Thomas More University$40,439$27,0000.67
Kentucky Wesleyan College$39,559
Asbury University$39,215$34,200$28,0000.71
Bellarmine University$38,469$40,317$27,0000.70
National Median$41,809$26,0000.62

Other Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods Programs in Kentucky

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Kentucky schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
University of Kentucky
Lexington
$13,212$41,312$23,250
Thomas More University
Crestview Hills
$38,400$40,439$27,000
Kentucky Wesleyan College
Owensboro
$33,393$39,559
Asbury University
Wilmore
$33,640$39,215$28,000
Bellarmine University
Louisville
$47,180$38,469$27,000

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 Louisville, approximately 29% 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 112 graduates with reported earnings and 124 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.