Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions at Shaw University

Based on comparable rehabilitation programs in North Carolina, Shaw graduates can expect first-year earnings around $34,990—right at the state median but trailing stronger performers like UNC-Wilmington by over $4,000. The estimated $27,000 debt load yields a manageable 0.77 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe roughly nine months of their first-year salary. For a school serving primarily Pell-eligible students (65% of undergrads), this represents a reasonable path into a helping profession, though families should recognize these figures come from peer programs rather than Shaw's specific outcomes.

The national picture offers little additional reassurance. Similar bachelor's programs nationwide produce median earnings of $35,966—barely $1,000 more than the NC estimate—suggesting this field doesn't offer dramatic geographic advantages. The debt estimate of $27,000 sits slightly above both state and national medians, which means Shaw graduates might carry marginally more burden than typical for this degree path.

For families weighing this program, the key question is career trajectory beyond year one. Rehabilitation professions often require additional credentials or graduate study to reach higher earning potential, so this bachelor's degree may represent a stepping stone rather than a destination. If your child plans to work immediately after graduation, the debt appears manageable on these projected earnings. If graduate school is likely, factor in additional borrowing before committing to this path.