Compare 7 Special Education and Teaching. programs in Minnesota. Average earnings: $44,855.
Special Education and Teaching programs produce graduates earning between $39,153 and $49,771—a $10K spread that demonstrates why program selection matters independently of school prestige. Across 7 ranked programs in Minnesota, outcomes vary based on program quality, not institutional reputation.
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities leads with graduates earning $49,771, followed closely by Minnesota State University-Mankato at $49,281. The state average sits at $44,855, but the top performers show that regional programs can deliver strong outcomes while maintaining more accessible admissions rates.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities graduates borrow $19,500 and face just a 9.8% payment burden, landing in the 'Good' category. At Minnesota State University-Mankato, families see an 18.9% combined burden, proving that the best choice depends on who's paying.
Highest program earnings: $49,771
Strong outcomes with 77% acceptance
9.8% payment burden | Good - payment 8-12% of discretionary
18.9% family burden | Challenging - payment 18-25% of discretionary
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $49,771 | 27 | $19,500 | Good | $25,729 | Challenging | |
| #2 | $49,281 | 39 | $21,106 | Good | $13,695 | Challenging | |
| #3 | Winona State UniversityPublic | $46,505 | 40 | $21,500 | Manageable | $19,316 | High |
| #4 | Augsburg UniversityPrivate | $44,170 | 9 | $25,347 | Manageable | $17,901 | High |
| #5 | $43,167 | 22 | $21,058 | Manageable | $11,598 | Challenging | |
| #6 | $41,937 | 15 | $20,500 | Manageable | $11,750 | Challenging | |
| #7 | $39,153 | 5 | $20,000 | Manageable | $10,000 | High |
Our program rankings answer: "Which schools have the best outcomes for graduates of this specific major?"
Unlike traditional rankings that measure overall school quality, these rankings focus on program-level outcomes. A school that's #200 overall might have a top-10 nursing program — and that matters if you're studying nursing.
Data based on 2024-2025 Dept of Education reporting standards. Learn about our methodology →