Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences at University of Vermont

University of Vermont's Health Services program produces middling outcomes that look slightly better on paper than they actually are. While $36,441 in first-year earnings edges out the national median by about $1,200, this advantage barely justifies the $27,000 in debt—particularly when you consider that UVM draws a more affluent student body (only 13% receive Pell grants) who likely had other options.

The 60th percentile ranking among Vermont programs sounds decent until you realize there are only three schools offering this degree in the state, making the comparison nearly meaningless. Nationally, the program sits squarely in the middle of the pack at the 57th percentile. The debt load, while below the national median, still represents three-quarters of a year's starting salary—a significant burden for someone entering a field where early earnings typically don't skyrocket.

The real concern here is the sample size warning: fewer than 30 graduates means these numbers could shift dramatically with just a few outlier earners. For a parent paying out-of-state tuition or taking on significant family debt, this program doesn't offer the kind of standout returns that would justify the risk. If your child has Vermont roots or strong financial aid, it's reasonable. Otherwise, look for programs with proven track records and larger graduate cohorts that offer more reliable outcomes data.