Champlain College

Champlain College has an ROI score of -69, indicating that the median earnings of graduates may not sufficiently cover the cost of attendance and associated debt over the long term.

The graduation rate at Champlain College is 64.1%.

Champlain College has a high tuition of $47,850 and median 10-year earnings of $58,386, resulting in a challenging return on investment.

Champlain College has a student body size of 2,752 students.

Champlain College has an affordability score of 35, suggesting it is not highly affordable relative to its outcomes.

Champlain College has a relatively high admission rate of 82.9%, indicating that it is not highly selective. This means that a significant majority of applicants are accepted, making it more accessible than many other private institutions. While the acceptance rate suggests it's not difficult to gain admission, prospective students should still focus on presenting a strong application. This includes maintaining good grades throughout high school, taking challenging courses, and writing a compelling personal essay. Demonstrating genuine interest in Champlain's specific programs, particularly its career-focused curriculum and internship opportunities, can also strengthen an application. While the academic bar for entry might be lower than at highly competitive schools, excelling in your coursework and showcasing your potential for success in Champlain's unique learning environment will always be beneficial.

Champlain College's value proposition is a point of careful consideration. The sticker price of $47,850, coupled with a median 10-year earning of $58,386 and median debt of $26,814, presents a challenging financial picture. The ROI score of -69 suggests that, on average, graduates do not see a substantial financial return on their investment within the first decade. The median debt is nearly half of the median 10-year earnings, indicating a potentially long debt repayment period. While the college excels in providing practical experience through internships and a career-focused curriculum, these benefits do not always translate into significantly higher earning potential compared to the cost of attendance. For students who can secure substantial financial aid or scholarships, or who are certain to enter high-paying fields where Champlain's specific training is highly valued, it might be a reasonable investment. However, for many, the cost may outweigh the average financial outcomes, making it less of a 'good deal' and more of a significant financial commitment that requires careful planning and a clear career trajectory.

Champlain College excels in majors that align with its career-focused mission and the strengths of the Vermont and New England job markets. Particularly strong programs include those in the technology sector, such as Cybersecurity, Computer Science, and Software Engineering, which prepare students for high-demand roles. The college also has a robust offering in Digital Arts and Sciences, including majors like Graphic Design & Digital Media, Animation, and UX/UI Design, catering to the growing creative industries. Business programs, especially those with a focus on entrepreneurship or specific industries like Hospitality and Tourism Management, are also well-regarded due to their practical application and internship opportunities. Students interested in fields like Criminal Justice or Psychology often benefit from Champlain's emphasis on real-world experience and community engagement. The 'upside-down curriculum' model means that students in almost any major gain practical skills and internship experience early, enhancing their employability across the board.

Student life at Champlain College is characterized by its close-knit community and its integration with the vibrant city of Burlington. As a smaller institution, Champlain fosters a strong sense of belonging, with students often knowing each other across different majors and years. The college emphasizes a balance between academic rigor and personal well-being, encouraging involvement in clubs, organizations, and campus events. Burlington itself offers a wealth of opportunities for students, from exploring the downtown area with its shops and restaurants to enjoying outdoor activities on Lake Champlain and the nearby Green Mountains. Campus culture is generally collaborative and engaged, with a focus on social responsibility and community service. While it may not offer the sprawling campus experience of a large university, Champlain provides a rich environment for personal growth, professional development, and enjoying the unique lifestyle of a progressive New England city.

Champlain College is committed to making education accessible and offers a range of financial aid options to help students manage the cost of attendance. This includes merit-based scholarships, which are awarded based on academic achievement, as well as need-based grants determined by a student's financial circumstances. Federal and state aid programs, such as Pell Grants and Vermont state grants, are also available to eligible students. The college also offers various payment plans to help spread the cost over time. While specific average aid amounts can fluctuate annually, prospective students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and the CSS Profile (if required) to determine their eligibility for all types of aid. Champlain's financial aid office is a key resource for understanding the full scope of available assistance, including loans and work-study opportunities, to help bridge the gap between the cost of tuition and a family's ability to pay.

The median salary for Champlain College graduates 10 years after enrollment is reported as $58,386. However, actual salaries can vary significantly based on the chosen major, geographic location of employment, and individual career progression. Graduates from high-demand fields like Cybersecurity and Software Engineering often command higher starting salaries, potentially in the $60,000-$80,000 range or more, especially if they secure positions in major tech hubs outside of Vermont. Alumni in creative fields like graphic design or animation might see starting salaries in the $45,000-$60,000 range, with potential for growth. Business graduates' earnings will depend heavily on their specialization and the industry they enter. It's important to note that Champlain's emphasis on internships and practical experience can lead to competitive job offers upon graduation, but the median earnings suggest that rapid salary growth that significantly outpaces the cost of education may not be the norm for all alumni.

Champlain College offers a variety of on-campus housing options designed to support student success and community building. First-year students are typically required to live on campus, providing them with a structured introduction to college life and easy access to campus resources. Housing options include traditional residence halls with shared rooms and common areas, as well as apartment-style living for upper-class students, offering more independence and amenities like kitchens. Many dorms are located conveniently close to academic buildings and student centers. The college places an emphasis on creating safe, supportive, and inclusive living environments, with resident assistants (RAs) available to provide guidance and support. While specific room features vary, students can generally expect standard dorm furnishings. The overall atmosphere is conducive to studying and socializing, fostering a strong sense of community among residents.

Champlain College's primary strength lies in its focus on experiential learning and career preparation rather than traditional academic research. While undergraduate research opportunities may exist within specific departments, particularly in fields like Psychology or Computer Science where students might engage in faculty-led projects or capstone research, it is not the central pillar of the college's academic identity. The 'upside-down curriculum' prioritizes internships and practical application over extensive theoretical research. Students seeking a deeply research-intensive undergraduate experience with opportunities for significant publication or extensive lab work might find other institutions more aligned with those goals. However, for students who wish to apply research methodologies within a practical, career-oriented context, Champlain can provide valuable opportunities through projects and internships that involve data analysis, problem-solving, and applied research within industry settings.

Champlain College is often compared to other small to mid-sized private colleges in New England that emphasize career development and a strong sense of community. Realistic peers include Saint Michael's College and Norwich University in Vermont, and potentially schools like Husson University or Unity College in Maine, depending on the program of interest. Compared to these peers, Champlain's key advantage is its highly integrated internship program and its 'upside-down curriculum,' which provides earlier and more frequent hands-on experience. Its location in Burlington offers a more urban college town feel than some of its more rural counterparts. However, Champlain's tuition is generally higher than public options like the University of Vermont, and its national brand recognition might be less extensive than larger, more established universities. While it offers a distinct educational model, its ROI and median earnings are points where it may not always outperform competitors, especially public institutions with lower costs.

Employers generally hold a positive view of graduates from Champlain College, particularly those in fields where the college has a strong reputation, such as technology, cybersecurity, and digital arts. The college's emphasis on practical skills, real-world experience through mandatory internships, and its career-focused curriculum are highly valued by many employers. Companies that recruit directly from Champlain, like Dealer.com and Burton Snowboards, recognize the preparedness of its graduates. The 'upside-down curriculum' ensures that students are not just learning theory but are actively applying it in professional settings, making them job-ready upon graduation. While Champlain may not have the same broad name recognition as a large research university, its specific brand within the New England business community, and particularly within the tech and creative sectors, is strong. Employers appreciate the initiative and practical skills that Champlain alumni bring to the workforce.