Analysis
Rehabilitation programs in California show considerable variation, and Fresno Pacific's estimated outcomes reflect this uncertainty. Based on comparable programs nationally, graduates can expect around $36,000 in first-year earnings with roughly $27,000 in debtβa ratio that's manageable but not remarkable. What's concerning is that similar California programs typically produce lower earnings (around $33,000) while carrying far less debt (median of just $12,800). If Fresno Pacific's actual outcomes align more with state peers than national ones, the debt burden becomes harder to justify.
The program serves a predominantly working-class population (59% receive Pell grants), which makes the debt load particularly significant. In rehabilitation fields, many graduates pursue additional licensure or graduate education, meaning this bachelor's degree may be just the first financial hurdle rather than a complete career credential. The 0.75 debt-to-earnings ratio looks reasonable on paper, but it assumes the national earnings estimate holds trueβa big "if" given that the state's only program with reported data shows earnings about 10% lower.
For families considering this investment, the key question is whether Fresno Pacific provides enough value beyond what Cal State LA delivers for less debt. Without actual graduate outcomes from this specific program, you're betting on uncertain returns. If your child needs immediate employment after graduation rather than further schooling, investigate how Fresno Pacific's career services and clinical placement networks stack up against more affordable state options.
Where Fresno Pacific University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all rehabilitation and therapeutic professions bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (8 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $35,558 | $35,966* | β | $27,000* | β | |
| $6,813 | $32,805* | $41,692 | $12,812* | 0.39 | |
| National Median | β | $35,966* | β | $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 Fresno Pacific University, approximately 59% 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 national median of 57 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.