Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions at Vermont State University

Vermont State University's rehabilitation program projects first-year earnings around $36,000—based on what similar bachelor's programs nationally produce—paired with an estimated $25,500 in debt. That 0.71 debt-to-earnings ratio falls within manageable territory, suggesting graduates could reasonably handle loan payments on entry-level rehabilitation salaries. However, parents should recognize that rehabilitation careers often require additional credentials beyond the bachelor's degree to reach higher earning potential.

The earnings estimate here sits right at the national median for these programs, meaning Vermont State appears aligned with typical outcomes rather than offering standout value. With 83% admission and nearly a third of students on Pell grants, this is an accessible option serving many first-generation and lower-income students. For families concerned about debt, the projected borrowing level is actually slightly below the national median of $26,250 for these programs.

The practical reality: rehabilitation fields like occupational therapy assistance, community health work, or rehabilitation counseling can provide stable employment, but the bachelor's alone may limit advancement. Many graduates pursue master's degrees to become full therapists, which means planning for additional debt. If your student intends to enter the workforce immediately after this degree, verify which specific career paths are available without further schooling and whether those salaries justify even moderate debt loads.