Median Earnings (1yr)
$33,724
47th percentile (60th in CT)
Median Debt
$28,500
14% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.85
Manageable
Sample Size
37
Adequate data

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

Central Connecticut State UniversityOther sociology programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Central Connecticut State University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Central Connecticut State University graduates earn $34k, placing them in the 47th percentile of all sociology bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut

Sociology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (19 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Central Connecticut State University$33,724$47,722$28,5000.85
Trinity College$50,077
Eastern Connecticut State University$38,523$40,335$26,0000.67
Southern Connecticut State University$32,013$47,818$26,0000.81
University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus$31,913$49,247$22,5000.71
University of Connecticut$31,913$49,247$22,5000.71
National Median$34,102$25,0000.73

Other Sociology Programs in Connecticut

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Connecticut schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Trinity College
Hartford
$67,420$50,077
Eastern Connecticut State University
Willimantic
$13,292$38,523$26,000
Southern Connecticut State University
New Haven
$12,828$32,013$26,000
University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus
Hartford
$17,452$31,913$22,500
University of Connecticut
Storrs
$20,366$31,913$22,500

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.