Special Education and Teaching at University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras

Four years after graduation, this program's reported earnings of $21,335 tell a troubling story, even in Puerto Rico's lower-cost market. While initial earnings based on comparable programs nationally suggest starting at $44,139, that figure likely doesn't reflect Puerto Rico's economy—where other special education programs in the territory report median earnings around $9,503. The dramatic drop from year one to year four signals something unusual, potentially reflecting graduates leaving the field, moving to part-time work, or facing severe market constraints.

The estimated debt of $26,023 compounds the concern. That's nearly five times what graduates of other Puerto Rico special education programs typically carry ($5,250). Even if first-year earnings matched national peers, paying off nearly $26,000 on a special education teacher's salary in Puerto Rico—where the territory median for this field sits below $10,000—creates real financial stress. The 65% Pell grant rate indicates most students here come from families without significant financial cushion.

For families considering this path: the fourth-year earnings data is the most concrete figure available, and it's far below what special education teachers typically earn even within Puerto Rico. Before committing, contact the program directly to understand these numbers—whether graduates are leaving education, working reduced hours, or facing placement challenges that explain the steep earnings decline.