Vermont State University
Vermont State University is a public university in Randolph, VT ranked #1806 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of C-, enrolling about 3,590 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 81.7%. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Electromechanical Instrumentation and Maintenance Technologies/Technicians.
Academically, students benefit from a 13:1 student-faculty ratio, 67.8% first-year retention, and 47.2% six-year graduation. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
Families typically invest $18,212, about $1,214 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -43.3%, roughly 128.6 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $41,340. That's about $2,348 below national results. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is Vermont State University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Vermont State University graduates 47.2% of students within six years and keeps 67.8% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Vermont State University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $11,952 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,200 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $13,618 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $6,504 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $25,988 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 34.1% of Vermont State University students receive Pell Grants — slightly below the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $14,645 to $24,007 depending on family income. Use Vermont State University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $20,668/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $24,007/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $41,340
- 10-Year Median Earnings $41,340
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $11,000
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 78.6%
- Employment Rate 15.9%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Vermont State University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Vermont State University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Vermont State University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Vermont State University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Vermont State University graduates earn $41,340 median, the -43.3% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading Not reported
- SAT Math Not reported
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite Not reported
- SAT & ACTNot required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 3,590
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 67.8%
- Graduation Rate 47.2%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 13:1
How to Get Into Vermont State University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Vermont State University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 81.7%, Vermont State University is relatively open. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: With a 81.7% acceptance rate, Vermont State University is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Vermont State University undergraduates. Business Administration, Management and Operations, Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing, and Electromechanical Technologies/Technicians draw the most students.
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 20.0%
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 17.9%
- Electromechanical Technologies/Technicians 13.6%
- Computer Engineering 7.9%
- Dental Support Services and Allied Professions 7.1%
- Construction Management 5.7%
See more majors
- Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technologies/Tec 5.0%
- Computer and Information Sciences, General 4.3%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $84,109
- 2. Electromechanical Instrumentation and Maintenance Technologies/Technicians $77,605
- 3. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $75,670
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians $69,638
- 5. Computer and Information Sciences, General $64,740
- 6. Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants $64,138
- 7. Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies $64,077
- 8. Dental Support Services and Allied Professions $63,366
- 9. Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology $55,563
- 10. Accounting and Related Services $55,046
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Special Education and Teaching (Master's Degree) $54,675
- 2. Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology (Master's Degree) $53,215
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $84,109—53% more than Accounting and Related Services ($55,046). Graduate: Special Education and Teaching programs lead with $54,675 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Vermont State University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants (Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, 142 graduates)
- Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degree, 28 graduates)
- Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies (Associate's Degree, 25 graduates)
- Electromechanical Instrumentation and Maintenance Technologies/Technicians (Bachelor's Degree, 19 graduates)
- Veterinary/Animal Health Technologies/Technicians (Associate's Degree, 16 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (15 programs)â–¼
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Electromechanical Instrumentation and Maintenance Technologies/Technicians
- Computer Engineering
- Construction Management
- Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Air Transportation
- Architectural Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Energy Systems Technologies/Technicians
- Computer Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Agricultural Business and Management
- Applied Horticulture and Horticultural Business Services
- Agricultural and Domestic Animal Services
Online Master's Degrees (1 program)â–¼
- Computer Engineering
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (5 programs)â–¼
- Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies
- Forestry
- Computer Software and Media Applications
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 3,590
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 43.8%
- Female Students 56.2%
- Caucasian 79.0%
- Asian 1.8%
- Hispanic 5.6%
- Black 5.0%
- Pell Grant Recipients 34.1%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Vermont State University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Vermont State University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Vermont State University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a similar rate as higher-income students, indicating adequate institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Vermont State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: The student body is 79.0% White, reflecting less racial diversity than the national average.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Vermont State University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a similar rate as higher-income students, indicating adequate institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Vermont State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Vermont State University serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #1806 nationally with ROI data not available, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.
At $18,212 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $41,340 median earnings. The 47.2% six-year graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 67.8% retention suggests adequate student support.
University Value: Vermont State University's Strengths
Ranked #1806 with a C- grade, Vermont State University prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.
Primary Strengths: Universitys like Vermont State University excel at providing affordable education ($18,212 annually) with strong local employer relationships. Many programs emphasize practical skills and internships within the regional economy.
Best For: Students planning to work in the region after graduation benefit from established employer connections. Adult learners and part-time students appreciate flexible scheduling. First-generation students and budget-conscious families gain degrees without overwhelming debt.
Honest Assessment: Vermont State University's 67.8% retention and 47.2% six-year graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($41,340 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.
Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, Vermont State University and $18,212 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.
Key Takeaways
- 47.2% six-year graduation rate sits 15.3 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 67.8% first-year retention is 9.0 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
- -43.3% return on investment is 128.6 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $41,340 run about 5% lower than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $18,212 is roughly $1,806 lower than the national median of $20,018.
Helpfulness for Students
- 13:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 67.8% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 15.9% employment rate within three years sits 52.3 points below national outcomes.
- Pell participation at 34.1% trails the national share by 0.2 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
EDsmart rates Vermont State University—a public university in Randolph, VT—at C- overall. It appears at #1806 in EDsmart's national list Completion earns C+, Support B-, Career Outcomes D-, and Affordability B.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
About 67.8% of first-year students return, and roughly 47.2% finish within six years. Return on investment currently measures -43.3% for this program.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $18,212 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $25,988.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $7,776 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $11,000 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 34.1% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Median earnings come in near $41,340 six years after enrollment. This is roughly 5% below typical U.S. college outcomes.
The three-year employment rate is close to 15.9%.
Plan around an ROI of about -43.3% according to the Scorecard data.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
81.7% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Vermont State University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Contact Information
- Address Randolph, VT 05061
- Website vermontstate.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationNew England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)
- Transfer Enrollment Rate21.1%