Special Education and Teaching at Western Illinois University
Macomb, IL · Public · Bachelor's Degree
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
46
Optimistic
45
Base Case
47
Pessimistic
Earnings
$46,729/yr (6% vs median)
AI Risk
High (44% exposed)
Job Market
Large (34,900 openings/yr)
ROI
8.1x earnings multiple
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 | $486K | $487K | $469K |
| Earnings Multiple | 8.1x | 8.1x | 7.8x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 81% | 73% | 58% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 46 | 45 | 47 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$59,808
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,896
5.9 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$48,274
3% growth from Year 1
About Western Illinois University
With 75% of applicants admitted, Western Illinois University prioritizes broad access, a smaller institution with 4,939 students in Macomb, IL.
See all programs and financial aid at Western Illinois 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
Compare & Explore
Special Education and Teaching at Other Schools
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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 Western Illinois 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 Western Illinois 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 →