Analysis
In Ohio, rehabilitation and therapeutic professions programs show fairly consistent outcomes, with similar programs across the state clustering around $36,000 in first-year earnings. Bluffton's estimated figures—based on these peer programs—suggest graduates enter the workforce earning roughly what they'd make from comparable programs at places like Wright State or the University of Toledo. The estimated $27,000 debt load translates to a 0.75 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe about nine months of their first-year salary.
What makes this field challenging is the limited early earning potential relative to the four-year investment. At $36,000 annually, graduates would face monthly loan payments consuming a notable chunk of their take-home pay during those crucial first years of career establishment. The rehabilitation professions often require additional certifications or graduate credentials to advance significantly, which could mean delayed earnings growth or additional borrowing down the line.
For parents evaluating this program, the key question is whether their student has a clear path within rehabilitation services that justifies the upfront cost. Since actual outcomes for Bluffton's specific graduates aren't available, the estimated figures drawn from peer programs provide a reasonable planning baseline—but they also underscore the importance of understanding exactly what credential or licensure this bachelor's degree provides and whether it's truly terminal or just a stepping stone to further training.
Where Bluffton University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all rehabilitation and therapeutic professions bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (23 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $36,298 | $35,966* | — | $27,000* | — | |
| $12,377 | $37,554* | $40,733 | $24,875* | 0.66 | |
| $11,188 | $35,966* | $37,095 | $30,000* | 0.83 | |
| $12,799 | $31,765* | $48,443 | $26,323* | 0.83 | |
| National Median | — | $35,966* | — | $26,250* | 0.73 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with rehabilitation and therapeutic professions graduates
Physical Therapists
Occupational Therapists
Low Vision Therapists, Orientation and Mobility Specialists, and Vision Rehabilitation Therapists
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
Orthotists and Prosthetists
Recreational Therapists
Exercise Physiologists
Rehabilitation Counselors
Medical Appliance Technicians
Engineers, All Other
Energy Engineers, Except Wind and Solar
Mechatronics Engineers
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Bluffton University, approximately 37% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 3 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.