Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods at William Carey University

William Carey University's teacher education program sits in an interesting position—it beats most Mississippi competitors for earnings, ranking 60th percentile statewide, yet trails the national median by about $2,300. More concerning is the 7% earnings decline from year one to year four, dropping graduates from nearly $40,000 to under $37,000. This backward slide is unusual even in teaching, where salaries typically plateau rather than fall. The relatively low debt of $20,754 provides some cushion, coming in below both state and national averages, which means graduates aren't saddled with the $26,000+ burdens common elsewhere.

The real question is why earnings drop after that first year. It could reflect graduates leaving teaching, shifting to lower-paying districts, or moving from full-time to part-time roles. For Mississippi families, this program delivers competitive starting salaries that exceed what most in-state options offer—only Jackson State does notably better. The debt load won't crush anyone, with just over half a year's salary owed upon graduation.

If your child is committed to teaching in Mississippi, William Carey provides a reasonably safe path with manageable debt. Just prepare for the possibility that year-four earnings might look worse than year-one, and factor that into any financial planning.