Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas at University of North Florida

This program outperforms 81% of teacher education programs nationally, with first-year earnings of $47,219—well above the national median of $43,082. However, it sits squarely in the middle of Florida's competitive teaching market, trailing programs at Florida Atlantic, Florida State, and several others. The estimated $20,732 in debt (based on comparable programs at University of North Florida) translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44, meaning graduates could realistically pay off their loans within a couple years on a teacher's salary.

The stagnant earnings between years one and four—dropping slightly from $47,219 to $46,844—reflect the reality of teacher pay scales in Florida, where salary growth depends on district budgets and state policy rather than individual performance. While other fields reward early-career momentum, teaching careers typically flatten after initial placement, so this pattern isn't unusual for the profession.

For parents whose child is committed to teaching, this program offers solid preparation without excessive debt burden. The earnings put graduates in a stable financial position from day one, even if dramatic income growth isn't part of the equation. Just recognize that within Florida, this program produces middle-of-the-pack outcomes—not the premium results you'd see at Florida State or FAU, but respectable earnings with borrowing levels that won't derail financial independence.