Computer Systems Analysis at Vermont State University

A debt-to-earnings ratio under 0.5 usually signals manageable finances, and that's what peer programs in computer systems analysis suggest here—estimated debt of $24,635 against first-year earnings around $52,500. These figures come from national medians of similar bachelor's programs since Vermont State's graduate cohort is too small for the Department of Education to publish. That's actually common in Vermont's limited tech education landscape, where only two schools offer this degree at all.

The financial picture looks reasonable on paper, but context matters. Vermont State serves a substantial population of Pell-eligible students (31%), and tech jobs in Vermont are concentrated in Burlington and a handful of other hubs—not rural Randolph. Graduates from comparable programs nationally earn solidly in the mid-$50,000s within their first year, which is respectable for an entry-level tech role, though not exceptional compared to software development or engineering tracks. The relatively modest debt load gives graduates breathing room, but only if they actually land in their field.

The real question is placement. With no reported outcomes data available and Vermont's thin tech employer base, you'd want to know where recent graduates actually ended up working and whether the program has strong industry connections beyond the state. The estimated numbers suggest viability, but they can't tell you if this specific program delivers on those benchmarks.