Program Analysis
Starting salaries of $35,789/yr fall 19% below the $44,105 national median for Special Education and Teaching. The financial case depends heavily on whether tuition compensates.
The 3.5x return on tuition is positive but not overwhelming. Financial outcomes depend on keeping costs close to in-state rates.
AI risk is moderate — 44% task exposure — and the 1% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
The $30,750 debt-to-$35,789 income ratio translates to about 10 months of earnings. Standard loan terms should handle this comfortably.
At #168 out of 170 programs, Notre Dame College's financial outcomes for Special Education and Teaching trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth is modest: $35,789 to $42,381 over five years (18% gain). This field may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.