Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas at University of Northern Colorado

UNC's teacher education program produces graduates earning roughly $40,000 annually—about $3,000 below the national median and $1,000 below Colorado's typical outcomes. Among the state's eight programs, it ranks in the 40th percentile, meaning most Colorado teaching programs deliver better early-career results. The pattern that follows is particularly troubling: rather than seeing the modest growth typical in teaching careers, earnings actually dip slightly by year four, suggesting graduates may be struggling to advance or find stable positions.

The debt picture offers some relief. At $23,125, graduates carry about $3,000 less than the national median, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.58. However, this still ranks in the 79th percentile nationally for debt burden—meaning many peer programs manage to graduate teachers with even less borrowing. For Colorado families considering in-state options, Metropolitan State University of Denver produces similar outcomes at comparable cost, worth exploring as an alternative.

Teaching is rarely a lucrative career choice, but it should at least provide stable, predictable growth. When graduates see their earnings plateau or decline in the first four years—typically the period when teachers are establishing themselves—it raises questions about job placement support and market dynamics. At $40,000 with stagnant growth, this program positions graduates at the lower end of teaching careers statewide.