Special Education and Teaching at Saginaw Valley State University

University Center, MI · Public · Bachelor's Degree
45 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
46
Optimistic
45
Base Case
49
Pessimistic
Earnings $43,191/yr (-2% vs median)
AI Risk High (44% exposed)
Job Market Large (34,900 openings/yr)
ROI 10.5x earnings multiple (4.5x out-of-state)
Ranked #87 of 170 Special Education and Teaching programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Special Education and Teaching graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $514K $512K $489K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 10.5x 10.5x 10.0x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.5x 4.5x 4.3x
Probability of Field Employment 81% 73% 58%
DegreeOutlook Score 46 45 49

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$48,960
Out-of-state: $115,008 (4.5x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$58,328
-19% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$29,500
8.2 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$50,545
17% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $43,191/yr, Special Education and Teaching graduates from Saginaw Valley State University land near the $44,105 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.

With a 10.5x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 5% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Special Education and Teaching career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $29,500 against $43,191/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #87 ranking among 170 Special Education and Teaching programs places Saginaw Valley State University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

The limited growth from $43,191 to $50,545 over five years suggests earnings in this field plateau relatively early in one's career.

About Saginaw Valley State University

With 73% of applicants admitted, Saginaw Valley State University prioritizes broad access, enrolling 6,004 students in University Center, MI.

See all programs and financial aid at Saginaw Valley State University →

Top Career Paths

Education teachers, postsecondary $72,090/yr
Special education teachers, secondary school $69,590/yr
Special education teachers, all other $67,430/yr
View all 6 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Special Education and Teaching at Other Schools

Other Majors at Saginaw Valley State University

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 45/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Special Education and Teaching at Saginaw Valley State University?
At 45/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Special Education and Teaching programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Special Education and Teaching at Saginaw Valley State University?
The 44% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →