Rankings / By Major

Best Colleges for Education

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$55,971

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

59%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$16,226

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing the right college for education majors involves looking at schools that not only provide a solid academic foundation but also lead to meaningful career outcomes. These institutions share a commitment to preparing future educators, and prospective students are increasingly weighing their options based on real-world data. For instance, the average earnings for graduates from these top schools is $59,064, a figure that reflects the return on investment for a degree in education.

What distinguishes the strongest programs on this list are their graduation rates, earnings potential, student debt, and upward mobility. Schools like Vanderbilt University showcase impressive statistics, with a graduation rate of 93% and average student debt of $14,000. This data helps illuminate the choices students face: while some colleges may offer lower net prices, they might not deliver the same financial outcomes or support systems upon graduation.

Take Vanderbilt University and Niagara University, for example. Vanderbilt’s graduates earn an average of $91,565, while Niagara's graduates earn $56,196, reflecting a significant financial disparity. However, Niagara’s lower net price of $17,248 compared to Vanderbilt’s $15,846 may appeal to budget-conscious students. These trade-offs are crucial in making an informed decision, and they highlight the importance of aligning personal priorities with educational goals.

Key Findings

Vanderbilt University graduates earn an average of $91,565, well above the average of $59,064.

Niagara University has a graduation rate of 72%, significantly lower than Vanderbilt's 93%.

CUNY Queens College has a low net price of $4,195, which is far less than many other institutions on this list.

CUNY Brooklyn College graduates carry an average debt of $11,000, lower than Niagara’s $25,475.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $55,971

Avg. graduation rate 59%

Avg. net price $16,226

Avg. median debt $19,699

How We Ranked

Composite score + program concentration bonus for Education

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

University of Northern Iowa

Cedar Falls, IA

Graduation68%

Earnings$55,177

Net Price$15,901

View full profile →

Niagara University

Niagara University, NY

Graduation72%

Earnings$56,196

Net Price$17,248

View full profile →

Valley City State University

Valley City, ND

Graduation51%

Earnings$52,725

Net Price$11,890

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

University of Northern Iowa

Cedar Falls, IA · 7,529 students · Public

Students at the University of Northern Iowa pursuing an Education degree are prepared to become leaders in the classroom and advocates for students’ needs. The program emphasizes hands-on teaching experience and student engagement, appealing to future educators eager to make a difference in the lives of their learners. This supportive environment fosters collaboration, allowing students to connect theory with practice as they grow into effective educators.

93% accepted 68% graduate $55,177 earnings

University's full profile

Niagara University

Niagara University, NY · 2,653 students · Private nonprofit

At Niagara University, the Education program welcomes students who are eager to engage with diverse communities and make a positive impact through teaching. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experiences, preparing future educators to meet the needs of various learners in real-world environments, making it ideal for those who value personal connection in their teaching approach.

87% accepted 72% graduate $56,196 earnings

Niagara's full profile

Valley City State University

Valley City, ND · 958 students · Public

Valley City State University's Education program is ideal for students who want to make a meaningful impact in rural and underserved communities. This program encourages future educators to develop strong relationships with their students, emphasizing personalized learning approaches that cater to individual needs. Students will engage in a hands-on curriculum that prepares them for the realities of teaching in diverse educational environments.

99% accepted 51% graduate $52,725 earnings

Valley's full profile

Mayville State University

Mayville, ND · 733 students · Public

Mayville State University’s Education program targets those who aspire to become educators in a close-knit, supportive environment. Students here work towards gaining the essential skills needed for teaching, with a focus on personalized learning approaches that reflect the needs of future students in various educational landscapes.

40% graduate $47,828 earnings

Mayville's full profile

SUNY College at Geneseo

Geneseo, NY · 3,869 students · Public

At SUNY College at Geneseo, the Education program attracts students who are dedicated to fostering learning and personal growth in diverse educational settings. This program emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and inclusivity, preparing future teachers to work effectively with various student populations. Students engage in reflective practices that enhance their teaching skills and understanding of educational equity.

66% accepted 72% graduate $67,316 earnings

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

The Education program at Vanderbilt University is designed for students passionate about shaping the future of learning. Students can expect a rigorous curriculum that prepares them to tackle the challenges in today’s educational landscape, focusing on both theory and practical application in diverse settings.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

CUNY Queens College offers a robust Education program that attracts students who are committed to serving a diverse urban population. The curriculum blends theoretical foundations with practical experiences in local schools, making it a fitting choice for those who thrive in dynamic, community-oriented environments and want to make a difference in education.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

Goshen College

Goshen, IN · 773 students · Private nonprofit

Goshen College offers an Education program that emphasizes community engagement and holistic development of future educators. Students here are not just learning to teach; they are being trained to nurture critical thinkers and compassionate leaders, making this a suitable choice for those who value personal connections in their educational journey.

84% accepted 63% graduate $51,943 earnings

Goshen's full profile

Emporia State University

Emporia, KS · 2,239 students · Public

The Education program at Emporia State University is designed for those who want to make a direct impact in the classroom. Students here engage deeply with pedagogical theory and practical teaching strategies, aimed at nurturing future generations of learners. With a strong emphasis on hands-on experience and community involvement, this program is a great fit for aspiring educators committed to fostering inclusive learning environments.

98% accepted 55% graduate $47,601 earnings

Emporia's full profile

#10

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

The Education program at CUNY Brooklyn College is designed for students who are passionate about shaping young minds and making a difference in urban communities. Here, future educators dive into practical learning experiences that prepare them for diverse classrooms, focusing on equity and accessibility in education. Students can expect a collaborative atmosphere that encourages creativity and critical thinking as they develop their teaching skills.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

Trinity Christian College

Palos Heights, IL · 820 students · Private nonprofit

Trinity Christian College cultivates a supportive environment for students pursuing an Education degree. With a focus on developing educators who are not just knowledgeable but also compassionate, students here work towards becoming skilled teachers who can make a meaningful impact in their communities.

85% accepted 61% graduate $55,700 earnings

Trinity's full profile

#12

Illinois State University

Normal, IL · 19,057 students · Public

At Illinois State University, the Education program attracts individuals eager to inspire and lead in various learning environments. Students here engage in a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes both theory and practical application, preparing them to tackle challenges in today’s educational landscape. With a strong focus on community engagement and collaboration, this program is ideal for those who want to be at the forefront of educational change, whether in the classroom or through educational policy.

88% accepted 65% graduate $62,117 earnings

Illinois's full profile

#13

William Carey University

Hattiesburg, MS · 2,201 students · Private nonprofit

At William Carey University, the Education program nurtures students who are passionate about teaching and community engagement. This program is particularly well-suited for those looking to blend educational theory with practical application, preparing them for a variety of teaching environments. Students will find a strong sense of purpose in shaping young minds and addressing educational challenges in their communities.

60% accepted 51% graduate $43,087 earnings

William's full profile

#14

SUNY Oneonta

Oneonta, NY · 4,643 students · Public

The Education program at SUNY Oneonta attracts students who are dedicated to nurturing the next generation of learners. With a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes both theory and practice, students are equipped to thrive in various educational roles, from classroom teaching to educational policy. The supportive campus environment encourages collaboration and engagement, making it an excellent choice for those passionate about fostering student development and academic success.

70% accepted 70% graduate $60,386 earnings

Boricua College

New York, NY · 391 students · Private nonprofit

74% graduate $35,348 earnings

Boricua's full profile

#16

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

At Brigham Young University, the Education program attracts students who are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of learners. Here, you’ll engage in a curriculum that emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical teaching skills, preparing you for a fulfilling career in education and community development.

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#17

Buena Vista University

Storm Lake, IA · 1,366 students · Private nonprofit

78% accepted 54% graduate $49,156 earnings

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore's Education program is ideal for students who are passionate about fostering learning and growth in diverse communities. With a focus on critical thinking and social justice, you'll be encouraged to explore the complexities of education and its impact on society while preparing for roles in teaching and educational leadership.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#19

Blackburn College

Carlinville, IL · 471 students · Private nonprofit

63% accepted 55% graduate $46,802 earnings

Blackburn's full profile

#20

Newman University

Wichita, KS · 851 students · Private nonprofit

Newman University’s Education program caters to aspiring educators who are passionate about making a difference in their communities. Students receive a well-rounded education that emphasizes hands-on learning and active engagement in educational practices. This program is a good match for those who thrive in smaller settings where personalized attention fosters growth and innovation, preparing them for various roles in education.

74% accepted 53% graduate $55,041 earnings

Newman's full profile

#21

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

Smith College's Education program is a nurturing environment for those who are dedicated to fostering learning and personal growth in others. Students are encouraged to explore educational theory and practice within a collaborative framework, preparing them for impactful careers in education. This program is particularly suited for individuals who are committed to social justice and equity in education, equipping them with the tools to influence change in various educational settings.

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

Minot State University

Minot, ND · 2,062 students · Public

The Education program at Minot State University is well-suited for students who are passionate about teaching and want to make a difference in the lives of young people. Here, students can expect to engage in hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for the classroom, emphasizing practical skills alongside educational theory. With a focus on community involvement, future educators can expect to connect with local schools and organizations, gaining valuable insights into the teaching profession.

65% accepted 46% graduate $51,759 earnings

The College of New Jersey

Ewing, NJ · 7,105 students · Public

The College of New Jersey's Education program is designed for committed individuals who aspire to become effective educators in a range of settings. Students engage deeply with educational theory and practice, preparing them to address the diverse needs of students in today’s classrooms and fostering environments where all learners can thrive.

62% accepted 86% graduate $73,323 earnings

SUNY at Fredonia

Fredonia, NY · 2,755 students · Public

78% accepted 52% graduate $54,247 earnings

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

The Education program at the University of Central Florida is designed for students eager to make a difference in the lives of young learners. This program attracts those who thrive in a diverse, dynamic environment and are committed to becoming adaptable educators ready to meet the needs of various student populations.

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

#26

University of Central Missouri

Warrensburg, MO · 5,648 students · Public

64% accepted 52% graduate $49,560 earnings

University's full profile

#27

Bridgewater State University

Bridgewater, MA · 7,829 students · Public

88% accepted 54% graduate $57,466 earnings

Bridgewater's full profile

#28

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL · 13,359 students · Public

At the University of North Florida, the Education program caters to those who are passionate about teaching and leadership in schools. Students can expect a collaborative learning environment where they gain practical experience and theoretical knowledge, all aimed at preparing them for a variety of roles in education. Whether aspiring to be a classroom teacher or an educational administrator, this program offers a solid foundation for making a difference in the lives of students.

53% accepted 69% graduate $56,343 earnings

University's full profile

#29

Piedmont University

Demorest, GA · 1,117 students · Private nonprofit

93% accepted 44% graduate $49,130 earnings

Piedmont's full profile

#30

St. Joseph's University-New York

Brooklyn, NY · 3,144 students · Private nonprofit

Students in the Education program at St. Joseph's University-New York can expect a supportive atmosphere that encourages collaboration and innovation. This program is particularly suited for those who are passionate about fostering learning in diverse populations and are ready to engage actively with their future students and communities.

72% accepted 67% graduate $63,905 earnings

New Mexico Highlands University

Las Vegas, NM · 1,451 students · Public

At New Mexico Highlands University, the Education program is tailored for aspiring teachers who want to engage with diverse populations and create inclusive learning environments. Students in this program work toward understanding educational theory while gaining practical skills through community involvement and field experiences, which are essential for future educators committed to equity in education.

26% graduate $45,937 earnings

State University of New York at New Paltz

New Paltz, NY · 6,086 students · Public

62% accepted 70% graduate $58,073 earnings

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS · 9,733 students · Public

90% accepted 48% graduate $48,928 earnings

Roberts Wesleyan University

Rochester, NY · 1,149 students · Private nonprofit

71% accepted 65% graduate $55,031 earnings

Roberts's full profile

#35

Chadron State College

Chadron, NE · 1,540 students · Public

44% graduate $47,002 earnings

Chadron's full profile

#36

Northwest Missouri State University

Maryville, MO · 4,378 students · Public

86% accepted 56% graduate $47,885 earnings

Northwest's full profile

#37

University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma

Chickasha, OK · 941 students · Public

66% accepted 41% graduate $41,913 earnings

University's full profile

#38

Ramapo College of New Jersey

Mahwah, NJ · 4,898 students · Public

Ramapo College of New Jersey has an Education program that caters to students who are dedicated to fostering learning and growth in diverse environments. This program emphasizes experiential learning and encourages students to develop innovative teaching strategies that resonate with a variety of learners. With a strong focus on collaboration and community, students here can expect to make meaningful connections that enhance their educational journey.

71% accepted 71% graduate $67,541 earnings

Ramapo's full profile

#39

Maranatha Baptist University

Watertown, WI · 541 students · Private nonprofit

72% accepted 65% graduate $45,593 earnings

Maranatha's full profile

#40

Midland University

Fremont, NE · 1,159 students · Private nonprofit

66% accepted 43% graduate $52,163 earnings

Midland's full profile

#41

Ball State University

Muncie, IN · 13,988 students · Public

86% accepted 63% graduate $51,833 earnings

Rhode Island College

Providence, RI · 5,049 students · Public

92% accepted 47% graduate $56,318 earnings

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

Florida International University is a vibrant hub for aspiring educators looking to make a difference in diverse learning environments. The Education program here is tailored for students who thrive in collaborative settings and are eager to tackle the challenges of modern education. With a focus on practical teaching experiences, students are well-prepared to enter the workforce as effective educators.

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

#44

Greenville University

Greenville, IL · 955 students · Private nonprofit

98% accepted 46% graduate $46,827 earnings

Greenville's full profile

#45

Bay Path University

Longmeadow, MA · 1,108 students · Private nonprofit

85% accepted 51% graduate $55,383 earnings

Georgia Southwestern State University

Americus, GA · 2,424 students · Public

75% accepted 36% graduate $48,757 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#47

SUNY Old Westbury

Old Westbury, NY · 4,162 students · Public

84% accepted 46% graduate $58,526 earnings

James Madison University

Harrisonburg, VA · 20,888 students · Public

72% accepted 80% graduate $69,954 earnings

William Penn University

Oskaloosa, IA · 1,301 students · Private nonprofit

52% accepted 31% graduate $48,936 earnings

William's full profile

#50

The University of Texas Permian Basin

Odessa, TX · 3,911 students · Public

95% accepted 42% graduate $56,073 earnings

The data reveals a notable pattern when comparing Vanderbilt University and St. Joseph's University-New York. While Vanderbilt boasts an impressive graduation rate of 93% and average earnings of $91,565, St. Joseph's graduates earn $63,905 and have a graduation rate of 67%. This highlights that a higher graduation rate can lead to significantly better financial outcomes, underscoring the importance of program support and resources.

After reviewing this list, it's essential to weigh these figures against personal factors like location, program fit, and financial situation. If a lower net price is a priority, schools like CUNY Brooklyn College with a net price of just $3,103 might be appealing. Alternatively, if maximizing earning potential is key, Vanderbilt’s performance should be a strong consideration. Understanding these variables can guide students in making a choice that aligns with their values and goals.

Ultimately, this data sheds light on the critical pathway from college to a stable career in education. Families must consider not just the immediate costs but the long-term benefits of their chosen institution. Selecting a school is a pivotal decision that will impact not only the student’s future earnings but also their overall quality of life. Making an informed choice can mean the difference between a secure future and financial strain.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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