Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at University of Vermont

University of Vermont's nursing program produces graduates who start strong at $73,068 but see their earnings decline to $70,358 four years out—unusual in a field where experience typically commands higher pay. This places the program at the 40th percentile both nationally and within Vermont, trailing Vermont State University's $75,160 outcomes despite UVM's higher selectivity and larger price tag. While starting salaries are respectable, the backwards earnings trajectory suggests graduates may face challenges advancing in their careers or retaining positions in Vermont's competitive healthcare market.

The debt picture offers some relief: at $25,257, graduates carry about $2,000 less than typical nursing students, keeping the debt-to-earnings ratio manageable at 0.35. However, this advantage matters less when earnings don't grow. For context, nursing graduates nationally typically see rising incomes as they gain experience and move into specialized roles or leadership positions. The reversal here—combined with middling performance among Vermont's limited nursing options—raises questions about career support and clinical placement quality.

If your child is set on staying in Vermont for nursing school, UVM won't saddle them with excessive debt. But Vermont State University delivers better outcomes at likely lower cost, and out-of-state flagships with stronger nursing programs might justify their premium if your child plans to work in a higher-paying market after graduation.