Analysis
Central Connecticut State's sociology program stands out in Connecticut for a crucial reason: four-year earnings growth. While graduates start near the state median at $33,724, they reach $47,722 by year four—a 42% jump that puts them ahead of every other Connecticut public university in the comparison set except Trinity College (which comes with a far higher price tag). Within Connecticut, this program ranks in the 60th percentile, meaning it outperforms more than half of the state's sociology programs.
The debt picture strengthens the case. At $28,500, graduates carry slightly more than the state median but far less than the national average, resulting in a manageable 0.85 debt-to-earnings ratio in year one. That ratio improves dramatically as earnings grow, making this one of the more financially balanced sociology programs in the state. The program serves a diverse student body—35% receive Pell grants—yet delivers earnings outcomes that climb steadily through the early career years.
For families concerned about sociology's earning potential, CCSU demonstrates that program choice within Connecticut matters. While not competing with Trinity's elite outcomes, this program offers Connecticut residents a practical path: moderate debt, solid earning trajectory, and outcomes that improve markedly with time. The moderate sample size suggests stable data, and the accessibility (76% admission rate) makes this a realistic option for many students.
Where Central Connecticut State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all sociology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Central Connecticut State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central Connecticut State University | $33,724 | $47,722 | +42% |
| Connecticut College | $22,636 | $54,667 | +142% |
| University of Connecticut | $31,913 | $49,247 | +54% |
| University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus | $31,913 | $49,247 | +54% |
| University of Connecticut-Avery Point | $31,913 | $49,247 | +54% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut
Sociology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (19 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $12,460 | $33,724 | $47,722 | $28,500 | 0.85 | |
| $67,420 | $50,077 | — | — | — | |
| $13,292 | $38,523 | $40,335 | $26,000 | 0.67 | |
| $12,828 | $32,013 | $47,818 | $26,000 | 0.81 | |
| $17,452 | $31,913 | $49,247 | $22,500 | 0.71 | |
| $20,366 | $31,913 | $49,247 | $22,500 | 0.71 | |
| National Median | — | $34,102 | — | $25,000 | 0.73 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with sociology graduates
Sociologists
Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary
Social Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary, All Other
Managers, All Other
Regulatory Affairs Managers
Compliance Managers
Loss Prevention Managers
Wind Energy Operations Managers
Wind Energy Development Managers
Brownfield Redevelopment Specialists and Site Managers
Social Science Research Assistants
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.
Sample Size: Based on 37 graduates with reported earnings and 50 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.