Special Education and Teaching at Athens State University

Athens, AL · Public · Bachelor's Degree
41 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
42
Optimistic
41
Base Case
45
Pessimistic
Earnings $43,668/yr (-1% vs median)
AI Risk High (44% exposed)
Job Market Large (34,900 openings/yr)
Ranked #103 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 $499K $499K $478K
Probability of Field Employment 81% 73% 58%
DegreeOutlook Score 42 41 45

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

Median Debt at Graduation
$23,144
6.4 months of Year 1 earnings

Program Analysis

Athens State University's Special Education and Teaching program produces graduates earning $43,668/yr — within striking distance of the $44,105 national average for this field.

The 4% 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 $23,144 against $43,668/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #103 ranking among 170 Special Education and Teaching programs places Athens State University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

About Athens State University

a compact campus enrolling 2,407 students in Athens, AL. 42% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating strong socioeconomic diversity.

See all programs and financial aid at Athens 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 Athens 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 41/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Special Education and Teaching at Athens State University?
At 41/100, 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 Athens 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 →