Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas at University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Similar programs in Washington suggest this path comes with debt around $23,400—reasonable for a teaching credential, though not insignificant for a profession known for modest starting salaries. The estimated first-year earnings of $49,177 match the state median for subject-specific teacher education programs, producing a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.48 that looks manageable compared to many other fields.

What's worth noting is how Washington's teacher education programs cluster together in outcomes. The estimated earnings here align with Central Washington's reported figures and sit comfortably above the national median of $43,082. Other public universities in the state report outcomes ranging from $41,914 to $55,864, suggesting that subject-area teaching credentials in Washington generally lead to comparable career starts regardless of which institution you choose. The modest debt estimate—lower than the state median—is encouraging for a field where compensation grows primarily through years of service rather than dramatic salary jumps.

The real question is whether your child is committed to teaching. These estimates suggest a financially viable path for someone passionate about the profession, but teaching offers limited earnings growth compared to fields with similar degree requirements. If your child is genuinely drawn to education, the numbers work. If they're uncertain about the classroom, comparable programs at Washington State or Pacific Lutheran show slightly higher reported outcomes, though the differences may reflect local job markets more than program quality.