Teacher Education at Ozarks Technical Community College
with a mid-sized student body of 8,194 in Springfield, MO.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $21,220/yr, roughly in line with the $23,742 national median for Teacher Education. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.
With a 41.4x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
Career paths for Teacher Education carry above-average AI exposure (43% of tasks). The 40% scenario spread means the difference between optimistic and pessimistic outcomes is substantial.
With first-year pay of $21,220 far exceeding the $9,749 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
A #5 ranking among 14 Teacher Education programs places Ozarks Technical Community College in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.
The $21,220-to-$33,171 earnings arc over five years reflects a 56% gain — well above average career growth for trade school graduates.
One registered apprenticeship pathway (Agriculture Education Instructor with a median wage of $63,910/yr) connects to Teacher Education careers, offering a paid training alternative to the classroom model.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Teacher Education graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health specialties teachers, postsecondary | $105,620 | +17.3% | 52% |
| Atmospheric, earth, marine, and space sciences teachers, postsecondary | $101,390 | +2.6% | 52% |
| Forestry and conservation science teachers, postsecondary | $100,830 | +4.0% | 52% |
About Teacher Education Careers
Your career could unfold in a bustling elementary school classroom or a high-energy gym. As a teacher, you’ll spend your days guiding young learners through reading and math, managing classroom dynamics, and using educational software and hands-on materials to bring lessons to life. Alternatively, as an exercise trainer, you’ll be on your feet demonstrating proper form with weights, designing personalized workout plans in a studio, and motivating clients to reach their fitness goals.
Compare & Explore
Teacher Education Overview
Teacher Education at Other Schools
Other Majors at Ozarks Technical Community College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.