Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language at University of Northern Iowa

The University of Northern Iowa's TESOL program outperforms most similar programs nationally, placing graduates in the 79th percentile for first-year earnings at $41,267—about $5,000 above the national median. The debt load of $26,250 creates a manageable 0.64 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates owe roughly 8 months of salary. Among Iowa's four schools offering this program, UNI sits right at the state median, suggesting it's a competitive option for in-state students seeking this credential.

The significant caveat here is sample size—this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, so outcomes could vary considerably for individual students. TESOL earnings also depend heavily on where graduates teach, with international positions and certain urban districts paying substantially more than others. UNI's high admission rate (94%) and modest SAT average suggest the program is accessible to most applicants, though the relatively low Pell grant enrollment (24%) indicates fewer low-income students choose this path.

For families comfortable with the small-sample uncertainty, this program delivers above-average outcomes in a field where earnings are typically modest. The debt burden is reasonable, and graduates who secure positions in higher-paying markets or transition into ESL program administration could see stronger long-term returns. Just understand that teaching English as a second language is a service profession with inherent salary limitations.