Analysis
Based on comparable Bachelor's in Education programs nationally, graduates can expect around $38,660 in first-year earnings with roughly $27,000 in debt—numbers that align closely with the national median for this field. While the data for Wingate's specific program is too limited to report, these estimates suggest a debt load of about 70% of first-year salary, which falls within a manageable range for teachers entering the profession. However, it's worth noting that similar programs in North Carolina typically produce lower starting salaries, with the state median closer to $33,800, so local job market realities may differ from the national picture.
The challenge with education programs is that teaching salaries start modest and grow slowly, making that initial debt burden feel heavier in practice. At $27,000, the estimated debt sits right at the national median for education degrees, but a new teacher earning in the mid-to-high $30,000s will still face meaningful monthly payments that constrain their budget. Wingate serves a substantial population of Pell-eligible students (41%), which means many families here are balancing this investment against limited resources.
For families considering Wingate's education program, the estimated figures suggest neither a bargain nor a trap—just the typical economics of preparing for a teaching career. The real question becomes whether your child is committed enough to the profession to accept several years of tight finances, and whether staying in North Carolina (where salaries run lower) or seeking positions in higher-paying states makes sense for your family's situation.
Where Wingate University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all education bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in North Carolina
Education bachelors's programs at peer institutions in North Carolina (12 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $40,196 | $38,660* | — | $27,000* | — | |
| $32,236 | $36,646* | $41,366 | $26,407* | 0.72 | |
| $19,500 | $30,966* | $27,947 | $27,000* | 0.87 | |
| National Median | — | $38,660* | — | $26,522* | 0.69 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with education graduates
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Wingate University, approximately 41% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 66 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.