Most
Affordable Colleges in Vermont in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Vermont combines business fundamentals with the state's close-knit campus culture. Typical courses include accounting, marketing, finance, management, economics, business law, and data analytics. Popular options include the University of Vermont, Champlain College, Norwich University, and Saint Michael's College programs or related business degrees. Graduates often pursue roles as business analysts, marketing coordinators, financial assistants, sales representatives, human resources specialists, and operations supervisors in companies, nonprofits, government agencies, or small businesses statewide.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Vermont combines classroom learning with research and community perspectives. Typical courses include developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, abnormal psychology, statistics, research methods, and social psychology. Students often gain experience through labs, internships, or fieldwork. Popular colleges offering psychology include the University of Vermont, Middlebury College, Saint Michael's College, Champlain College, and Norwich University. Graduates may pursue roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, research assistant, human resources specialist, or youth services worker.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Vermont combines programming fundamentals with hands-on projects. Typical courses include algorithms and data structures, software engineering, databases, computer systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students also develop problem-solving and teamwork skills through practical experience. Graduates often pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, web developers, data analysts, or cybersecurity specialists. Popular Vermont colleges offering computer science study include the University of Vermont, Middlebury College, Champlain College, Norwich University, and Vermont State University.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Vermont combines coursework in counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, and culturally responsive practice. Programs include supervised practicum or internship experience. Graduates may pursue roles as licensed clinical mental health counselors, school counselors, substance use counselors, or career counselors, depending on degree and licensure. Popular options include the University of Vermont, Vermont State University, and Saint Michael's College, which offer counseling or counseling-related graduate study in the state.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Vermont combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, mental health, and maternal-child care. Programs also develop assessment, communication, and evidence-based care skills. Graduates may become registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, or public health agencies. Vermont options include the University of Vermont and Vermont State University, which offer pathways for aspiring nursing professionals statewide.

Best Colleges in Vermont Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 47,130, compared with 66,596 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of 19,466.
• Financial aid is reported for an average of 100% of students overall, compared with 62.33% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 62.33%. Schools receive an average of 6,517.22 applicants, while top-10% schools receive an average of 15,459.6. The median applicant counts are 1,561 men and 1,854 women.
• The average SAT score is 1,390 and the average ACT score is 32.
• Schools enroll an average of 3,360.67 students, including averages of 281.78 men and 330.89 women.
• The average graduation rate is 62.33%, compared with 81.4% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 64% for men and 68% for women.
• Five institutions offer associate's degrees, nine offer bachelor's degrees, eight offer master's degrees, and three offer doctor's degrees.
• Nine schools are coeducational; zero are schools for men and zero are schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total study costs and financial aid alongside admissions figures, test scores, degree offerings, enrollment, and graduation outcomes. In particular, consider whether the higher costs associated with the top 10% align with your budget and priorities, and weigh graduation rates against the programs and support that matter to you.

How much does studying at a college in Vermont cost?

For a Vermont student, the average total cost of studying is $46,695.40. This figure offers a practical starting point for planning a degree, though your actual bill will depend on the college, program, and living choices. At the state's colleges, average tuition and fees are $45,268.80, while average room and board come to $17,026.50. Books and supplies average $1,342.86, so it's worth budgeting for course materials in addition to tuition.

At institutions such as the University of Vermont, Champlain College, and Middlebury College, compare each school's cost of attendance; statewide averages may not match individual prices. Ask about grants, scholarships, work-study, and payment plans, since aid can improve affordability. Consider commuting, housing, meal plans, and books. For an estimate, total your chosen college's listed costs and subtract grants or scholarships. Vermont's campuses offer varied settings, helping you find a program and place that fit your goals.

How long does it take to finish college in Vermont?

In Vermont, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes about two; programs such as nursing, engineering, or education may take longer because of clinical, lab, or licensing requirements. Your pace at the University of Vermont, Middlebury College, Champlain College, Norwich University, or Community College of Vermont depends on your course load and major.

Graduation rates offer a useful reality check: the reported average is 62.33%, meaning completion is common but not guaranteed. The average is 81.4% among the top 10% of schools. Reported rates are 59.89% for men and 64.67% for women, so planning support early can make a real difference.

You may finish sooner with these options:

• Use AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits; confirm transfer rules.
• Take summer courses or a manageable heavier course load.
• Meet an adviser early to map prerequisites and explore accelerated or online classes in Vermont.

Salary

After graduating from college in Vermont, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $48,097. For graduates of the state's top 10% of schools, the median is higher, at about $54,206. These figures offer a useful benchmark as you weigh programs at popular Vermont institutions such as the University of Vermont, Middlebury College, and Champlain College; actual earnings vary by degree, career, and experience.

People also ask

What college in Vermont has the lowest tuition?

The Community College of Vermont (CCV) is generally the lowest-cost option for Vermont residents, with comparatively low per-credit tuition. Your total bill depends on how many credits you take and any fees, so compare the current rates for your intended term. CCV can be an encouraging place to begin college affordably and close to home.

What college in Vermont has the lowest GPA requirement?

The Community College of Vermont is a strong option if you're concerned about GPA: it has open admissions and does not set a minimum high-school GPA as a general admissions requirement. That can make starting or returning to college feel more manageable. Some programs or courses may have their own prerequisites, so check those before enrolling.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Vermont Ranking in 2026-2027

University of Vermont is the state's flagship public university, located in Burlington near Lake Champlain. For a Vermont-based student, its enrollment of 14,425 offers a campus community while remaining close to home. The 79% graduation rate and 65% acceptance rate provide useful context when comparing admission and completion. Annual total study cost is $42,724, and median alumni salary is $44,986. Its broad academic offerings and Burlington's cultural and outdoor access make it a distinctive in-state option for pursuing a degree.

Vermont State University is a public institution serving students across Vermont, with a practical, statewide identity and programs connected to regional communities. For a student who wants to remain in Vermont, it reports 5,136 enrolled students, an 82% acceptance rate, and a 47% graduation rate. Total study cost is $20,688, and median alumni salary is $50,196. Figures can help applicants weigh affordability, completion prospects, and post-college earnings while choosing a degree near home in the Green Mountain State for many.

SIT Graduate Institute, based in Brattleboro, is known for international education and experiential, globally oriented graduate programs. The school's listed total cost of study is $20,734, a key figure for Vermont residents considering graduate education close to home. Enrollment, graduation, acceptance, and alumni salary figures are unavailable, so applicants should request current program-specific outcomes, aid details, and enrollment information directly before deciding. Its Vermont setting may appeal to learners seeking cross-cultural study, field-based learning, and an internationally focused perspective locally.

Sterling College-Vermont was a small liberal arts college in Craftsbury Common, known for environmental studies, sustainability, and hands-on learning. Its reported enrollment of 58 reflects an intimate setting; the 32% graduation rate and 67% acceptance rate offer additional comparison points. Total study cost is $40,560, while median alumni salary is unavailable. Because the college announced it would cease operations in 2025, Vermont applicants should confirm whether any programs or services remain available before considering enrollment or transfer options at present.

Norwich University is a private university in Northfield with a longstanding military tradition and a broad academic community. It enrolls 3,234 students; its 60% graduation rate and 74% acceptance rate help Vermont applicants assess fit and admission prospects. Total study cost is $46,860, and median alumni salary is $50,597. Located in Vermont, Norwich can suit students seeking a residential campus experience, structured leadership opportunities, and degree pathways without leaving the state. Compare costs with financial aid and your major carefully.