Civil Engineering at Central Connecticut State University

Central Connecticut State delivers solid civil engineering outcomes that punch above its selectivity level. Starting at nearly $72,000 and climbing to $82,000 within four years represents a 14% gain that surpasses both national and Connecticut medians. For a school with a 76% admission rate, beating 69% of civil engineering programs nationally is noteworthy—this isn't a program coasting on institutional prestige.

The debt picture strengthens the case considerably. At $31,000, graduates owe about $7,000 more than the state average, but crucially, they're earning more than peers at comparable Connecticut schools like University of New Haven. That 0.43 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates can realistically manage payments while building their careers. The program ranks in just the 5th percentile nationally for debt, meaning 95% of civil engineering programs leave students with less debt, but when you're starting at $72K, that tradeoff looks manageable.

For Connecticut families, this represents a cost-effective entry into a stable profession. Your child won't match Quinnipiac's slightly higher starting salary, but they'll avoid the premium tuition that comes with it. With civil engineering offering consistent demand and clear licensing pathways, the combination of accessible admission, competitive earnings, and reasonable debt makes this a pragmatic choice that balances risk and reward well.