Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions at Florida International University

A debt load around $25,000 for a rehabilitation degree represents a manageable starting point—based on national medians for similar programs, graduates typically earn about $36,000 in their first year, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.71 that's well within sustainable territory. That means borrowing roughly seven months of income rather than the full year or more that signals real repayment stress. With 40% of FIU students receiving Pell grants, this program appears structured to serve students who need credentials that lead directly to employment.

The challenge lies in Miami's cost of living combined with starting salaries that, while typical for the field nationally, don't leave much breathing room. Rehabilitation professions often require additional licensing or graduate work for advancement, so families should factor in whether this bachelor's degree represents a stopping point or a stepping stone. Other Florida programs in this field carry significantly higher debt loads—nearly double the estimated figure here—which suggests FIU's approach may offer better value, though without specific outcome data for this program, that remains an educated guess based on peer institutions.

For parents weighing this investment, the math works if your child is committed to the field and prepared for modest starting pay that typically improves with experience and specialization. The debt level won't derail their financial future, but it won't leave much cushion for missteps either.