Analysis
Based on comparable programs in Michigan, Calvin's rehabilitation professions graduates appear positioned near the state median with estimated first-year earnings around $41,300—solidly above the national benchmark but trailing the state's top performers by significant margins. Saginaw Valley's grads earn nearly $19,000 more, while Grand Valley's earn about $2,300 more in the same competitive job market. The $23,000 debt load is notably lower than both state and national medians, which helps offset the middling earnings picture somewhat.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.56 suggests manageable repayment, with debt representing just over half of first-year income. That's a reasonable foundation for entry into a field where many practitioners pursue additional certifications or graduate degrees to advance. However, the gap between Calvin and the top in-state programs raises questions about whether similar professional outcomes justify different price points—especially at a private institution where total cost of attendance likely exceeds published debt figures for many families.
For parents of students committed to rehabilitation work, Calvin offers a faith-integrated environment with lower-than-typical debt. But the estimated earnings suggest graduates won't enjoy a financial advantage over peers from less expensive public alternatives in Michigan. If your student is exploring options, comparing actual job placement rates and graduate school pathways across these programs would clarify whether Calvin's specific approach delivers distinct value beyond the numbers.
Where Calvin University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all rehabilitation and therapeutic professions bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Michigan
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (8 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $38,670 | $41,320* | — | $23,000 | — | |
| $12,240 | $59,937* | — | $18,500 | 0.31 | |
| $14,628 | $43,631* | $39,784 | $27,000 | 0.62 | |
| $14,190 | $39,008* | $45,042 | $27,000 | 0.69 | |
| $15,510 | $33,926* | $45,854 | $27,425 | 0.81 | |
| 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 Calvin University, approximately 14% 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 4 similar programs in MI. Actual outcomes may vary.