TESOL at Ashford University

San Diego, CA · Private for-profit · Bachelor's Degree · Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
28 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
29
Optimistic
28
Base Case
38
Pessimistic
Earnings $22,257/yr (-37% vs median)
AI Risk High (31% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (279,900 openings/yr)
ROI 6.6x earnings multiple
Ranked #6 of 6 Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language programs

Program Analysis

This program opens doors to a globally diverse career, but the earnings data reflects its unique landscape. Many graduates pursue opportunities abroad, teaching English in countries like Japan, Spain, or Korea, where compensation and benefits vary widely and may not always translate to high US-dollar equivalents. Domestically, roles often exist in private language institutes, community college ESL programs, or private tutoring, which can be part-time or require additional state certification for public K-12 schools. The high AI risk score suggests that while AI can assist with language learning, your value will increasingly lie in human interaction, cultural context, and adaptive teaching methodologies. To truly thrive, prioritize internships or practicum experiences, and actively cultivate a robust professional network both domestically and internationally.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to TESOL graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $337K $347K $348K
Earnings Multiple 6.4x 6.6x 6.6x
Probability of Field Employment 69% 64% 55%
DegreeOutlook Score 29 28 38

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$52,640
Median Debt at Graduation
$30,239
16.3 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$25,954
17% growth from Year 1

About Ashford University

one of the larger campuses at 23,734 students in San Diego, CA.

See all programs and financial aid at Ashford University →

Top Career Paths

Secondary school teachers, except special and career/technical education $64,580/yr
Middle school teachers, except special and career/technical education $62,970/yr
Elementary school teachers, except special education $62,340/yr
View all 6 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

TESOL at Other Schools

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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 28/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for TESOL at Ashford University?
At 28/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring TESOL programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a TESOL degree from Ashford University?
At $30,239 in median debt, graduates carry 16 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Should I worry about AI if I study TESOL at Ashford University?
The 31% 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.
Is Ashford University a good choice for TESOL despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Ashford University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →