Special Education and Teaching at University of North Carolina Wilmington

UNC Wilmington's special education program sits right at the state median for earnings—40th percentile among North Carolina's 24 programs—while keeping debt substantially lower than average. Graduates carry just $19,500 in debt compared to NC's $24,500 median, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46 that's quite manageable for a teaching career. The first-year salary of $42,584 is modest but typical for special education teachers in the region, hovering close to both state and national medians.

The concern here is the complete absence of earnings growth: graduates earn essentially the same amount four years out as they do right after graduation. This stagnation likely reflects North Carolina's teacher salary structure rather than the program itself, as other state programs show similar patterns. The trade-off is clear—you're getting into a stable, needed profession without crushing debt, but salary advancement will depend more on district policies and advanced degrees than time in the field.

Keep in mind the sample size is small (under 30 graduates), so individual outcomes could vary more than these numbers suggest. For a student committed to special education teaching in North Carolina, this program offers a financially responsible entry point. Just understand that the salary ceiling is real, and any significant income growth will likely require moving into administration or earning additional certifications.