Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions at University of Southern Maine

In Maine's small market for rehabilitation and therapeutic professions, University of Southern Maine's program produces outcomes that mirror national patterns but leave questions about career trajectory. With estimated first-year earnings around $36,000 and debt near $25,500, graduates face a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.71—manageable compared to many healthcare fields, but only if these entry-level salaries improve with experience and licensure.

The challenge with rehabilitation professions at the bachelor's level is understanding what specific careers these graduates pursue. This degree can lead to roles as rehabilitation counselors, case managers, or support positions in physical and occupational therapy settings—fields where advancement often requires additional credentials. Peer programs nationally suggest similar starting salaries, but without knowing whether USM graduates typically continue to graduate school or enter the workforce directly, it's difficult to assess the full value proposition. The debt load is slightly below the national median for the program, which offers some cushion.

For parents, the key question is whether your student plans to use this as a terminal degree or a stepping stone. If they're aiming for licensed positions in occupational or physical therapy, they'll need graduate school—making this bachelor's debt the first installment, not the final cost. If they're entering the workforce immediately in case management or support roles, these estimated numbers suggest a tight but workable financial start, provided they secure full-time employment quickly after graduation.