Civil Engineering at University of Vermont

University of Vermont's civil engineering program lands squarely in the middle of a limited Vermont market—outearning Norwich significantly—but struggles to compete nationally. Starting at $62,000, graduates earn about $8,000 less than the national median for civil engineering programs, placing this in just the 5th percentile nationally. That's a substantial gap for a field where starting salaries are typically more standardized.

The debt load of $22,375 is actually below the national average for civil engineering, creating a manageable 0.36 debt-to-earnings ratio. Within Vermont, this program performs respectably at the 60th percentile, though with only two schools offering civil engineering in-state, that comparison has limited meaning. The real concern is the weak national positioning: if your child plans to work anywhere outside Vermont or compete in a broader market, they'll be starting from behind peers at most other programs.

The 19% earnings growth to $74,000 by year four is solid and suggests the degree opens doors to advancement. But unless Vermont is the definitive destination—for family, lifestyle, or career reasons—this program's below-average starting position makes it a questionable choice when stronger civil engineering programs exist at similar or lower cost elsewhere. The modest debt won't sink your finances, but the earning disadvantage could compound over a career.