Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $29,100 place Ferrum College below the $41,690 national median for Teacher Education — worth weighing against tuition and cost of living.
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 — 43% task exposure — and the 6% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
The $27,000 debt-to-$29,100 income ratio translates to about 11 months of earnings. Standard loan terms should handle this comfortably.
At #347 out of 348 programs, Ferrum College's financial outcomes for Teacher Education trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth from $29,100 to $48,774 over five years (68% increase) indicates that graduates in this field see meaningful salary progression.