University of Vermont

UVM offers over 100 majors, with particular strengths in environmental sciences, engineering, and agriculture—no surprise given its roots in Vermont’s rural landscape. The College of Arts and Sciences encourages interdisciplinary study, allowing students to cobble together double majors, individually designed majors, or major/minor combos. Standout programs include:

• Ecology and agriculture (praised by students for hands-on fieldwork)
• Life sciences (a pipeline for pre-med students)
• Social sciences, including psychology (the most popular major)

Small class sizes are common, with a student-faculty ratio of 16:1, and the Princeton Review highlights UVM’s 'wide variety of courses that are both challenging and engaging.'

Burlington’s outdoor recreation and progressive culture define UVM’s vibe. Students describe the campus as 'welcoming' and 'chill,' with a robust social scene that doesn’t rely on Greek life (only 4% of students join fraternities/sororities). Highlights include:

• Proximity to skiing, hiking, and Lake Champlain (kayaking is a rite of passage)
• Thriving arts and music scene, fueled by Burlington’s indie spirit
• Farm-to-table dining halls, a nod to Vermont’s agricultural roots

Reddit threads praise the lack of cutthroat competition: 'Most people on campus are super nice.' The university actively fosters inclusivity, with programming focused on 'student leadership development and community involvement.'

UVM punches above its weight in graduation rates: 66.7% of students finish in four years—a figure that places it among the top public universities nationally. The overall graduation rate climbs to 76-79%, with alumni typically entering fields like healthcare, education, and environmental sciences. Median debt at graduation is $20,951, below the national average, and the university tracks outcomes rigorously via post-grad surveys. One notable stat: UVM’s four-year graduation rate has risen steadily, from 62.4% to 66.7% in recent years, reflecting improved student support.

For out-of-state students, UVM’s sticker price is steep, but the average net cost—after aid—drops to $19,386. The university meets 81% of demonstrated financial need, though Vermont residents benefit from lower tuition. Key details:

• Merit scholarships are available, with awards based on academic achievement
• The Net Price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. Calculator helps families estimate actual costs (hint: use it)
• UVM’s aid packages lean heavily on grants and scholarships, not just loans

One caveat: Costs can creep up for students who stay beyond four years (the average time to degree is 4.1 years).

UVM is the crunchy, outdoorsy cousin of flagship publics—think Berkeley with flannel and maple syrup. Its location in Burlington, a college town with breweries, activist energy, and lakefront sunsets, is unbeatable for students who want both rigorous academics and a backdrop of mountains and organic farms. The university’s focus on sustainability (see: the famed Rubenstein School of Environment) and hands-on learning sets it apart, as does its quirky mascot (Rally the Catamount). Here, you can study climate science by morning and hit the slopes by afternoon—all while joining a community that’s as likely to debate soil health as it is to rally for social justice.