Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences at Central Connecticut State University
Bachelor's Degree
ccsu.eduAnalysis
A Bachelor's in Geological and Earth Sciences from Central Connecticut State appears to lag behind Connecticut's stronger geology programs. While peer programs across the country typically produce first-year earnings around $39,700, Eastern Connecticut State—the only in-state school with reported outcomes—shows graduates earning $43,915, a meaningful $4,200 premium. That gap suggests CCSU's program may not connect graduates to the same opportunities as Connecticut's best options.
The estimated debt load of roughly $24,800 yields a manageable 0.62 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe about seven months of their first-year salary. This financial picture isn't alarming, but it assumes your child enters the job market at typical rates. Geosciences careers often require additional credentials or internships to access higher-paying positions in environmental consulting, energy, or government agencies—pathways that stronger programs may facilitate more effectively.
For families considering CCSU, the question isn't whether this program is affordable—it likely is—but whether it positions graduates competitively within Connecticut's geology job market. With Eastern Connecticut State producing notably better outcomes just 30 miles away, exploring what differentiates these programs (internship networks, faculty connections, curriculum focus) would be worthwhile before committing.
Where Central Connecticut State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all geological and earth sciences/geosciences bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut
Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (11 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $12,460 | $39,678* | — | $24,757* | — | |
| $13,292 | $43,915* | $56,773 | $26,000* | 0.59 | |
| National Median | — | $39,678* | — | $24,757* | 0.62 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with geological and earth sciences/geosciences graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers
Hydrologists
Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary
Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary
Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians
Hydrologic Technicians
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Central Connecticut State University, approximately 35% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 103 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.