Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions at Washington Adventist University
Bachelor's Degree
wau.eduAnalysis
Maryland's rehabilitation and therapeutic professions programs vary considerably in outcomes, and while Washington Adventist's figures are estimates drawn from peer institutions nationally, they suggest this program tracks closer to national norms than state averages. Similar bachelor's programs typically produce first-year earnings around $36,000—actually higher than the state median of $30,400 seen at programs like University of Maryland Eastern Shore.
The estimated $27,000 debt load aligns with what comparable private institutions report for this field. A 0.75 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates would owe roughly three-quarters of their first-year salary, which creates a manageable repayment scenario under standard plans. For context, rehabilitation programs can lead to various career paths—from rehabilitation counselor roles to positions supporting occupational or physical therapists—and many professionals in this field pursue additional credentials that boost earning potential beyond the bachelor's level.
The key consideration: nearly half of Washington Adventist students receive Pell grants, indicating strong financial aid infrastructure that could reduce actual out-of-pocket costs below these estimated debt figures. If your child is committed to therapeutic professions, the numbers from peer programs suggest this investment won't create overwhelming financial strain, though earnings growth will likely depend on whether they pursue graduate education or specialized certifications after graduation. Check with the school directly about placement rates in healthcare settings and what percentage of graduates continue to advanced degrees.
Where Washington Adventist University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all rehabilitation and therapeutic professions bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Maryland
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Maryland (5 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $25,200 | $35,966* | — | $27,000* | — | |
| $8,898 | $30,423* | $40,916 | $29,750* | 0.98 | |
| National Median | — | $35,966* | — | $26,250* | 0.73 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with rehabilitation and therapeutic professions graduates
Physical Therapists
Occupational Therapists
Low Vision Therapists, Orientation and Mobility Specialists, and Vision Rehabilitation Therapists
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
Orthotists and Prosthetists
Recreational Therapists
Exercise Physiologists
Rehabilitation Counselors
Medical Appliance Technicians
Engineers, All Other
Energy Engineers, Except Wind and Solar
Mechatronics Engineers
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Washington Adventist University, approximately 46% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 57 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.