Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services at University of Vermont

That $19,566 first-year salary should raise immediate concerns—it lands this program in just the 5th percentile nationally among dietetics programs, trailing the national median by nearly $14,000. For context, this is roughly what someone earning $9.40/hour full-time would make. The $22,896 in median debt means graduates are borrowing more than they'll earn their first year out. While the program ranks at the 60th percentile within Vermont, that's misleading: UVM appears to be the only school in the state offering this degree, making the comparison meaningless.

The dramatic earnings jump to $53,534 by year four suggests graduates likely need additional credentials or experience before reaching typical dietitian salaries. This pattern is common in nutrition fields where entry-level positions pay poorly while graduates pursue required internships or certifications. However, small sample sizes here (under 30 graduates tracked) mean individual circumstances could be skewing these numbers significantly. A few graduates pursuing graduate school or part-time work could explain that shockingly low first-year figure.

If your child is set on dietetics at UVM, understand they're likely looking at financial struggle immediately after graduation, potentially needing family support or multiple jobs while completing professional requirements. The eventual earnings are decent, but that first year could be brutal. Before committing to $23,000 in debt for this outcome, seriously explore whether your student could enter this field through less expensive routes at other institutions.