Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods at University of St Thomas

University of St. Thomas graduates enter teaching with debt levels well below both national and state norms—$27,000 versus typical program debt of around $26,500—while earning slightly above-average starting salaries at $42,819. That 0.63 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates are borrowing less than eight months' salary, a manageable position for early-career teachers. Among Minnesota's 29 teacher education programs, this ranks solidly in the middle at the 60th percentile.

What's notable here is the steady upward trajectory: earnings grow 10% over four years to $47,276, outpacing many teaching programs where salaries plateau quickly. This reflects Minnesota's stronger-than-average teacher compensation structure and suggests graduates are moving through salary scales as expected. The program doesn't reach the heights of Martin Luther College or University of Minnesota-Morris (both near $46,500 in year one), but it performs consistently and predictably.

For a parent evaluating teaching programs, this represents a straightforward value proposition—moderate debt, reliable placement into teaching positions, and earnings that progress steadily. The 85% admission rate and strong SAT scores suggest selective-enough standards without impossible barriers. If your child is committed to teaching and wants a private university experience in the Twin Cities, the financial outcomes here won't derail them, even if they're not exceptional.