Median Earnings (1yr)
$62,742
95th percentile (60th in CT)
Median Debt
$26,630
2% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.42
Manageable
Sample Size
64
Adequate data

Analysis

Charter Oak State College's business program delivers earnings that outpace 95% of similar programs nationwide, with graduates earning $62,742 in their first year—nearly $37,000 more than the national median. This positions it as the top-earning business program among Connecticut's 22 offerings, beating even UConn's well-regarded program by roughly $5,000. With debt held to $26,630 and a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.42, graduates typically owe less than half their first-year salary, making this manageable even on an entry-level timeline.

The value proposition is particularly strong given that 38% of students receive Pell grants, suggesting this program successfully serves students from lower-income backgrounds while delivering elite-level outcomes. While the moderate sample size means results could shift year-to-year, the current data shows a clear pattern: graduates are securing high-paying business roles quickly after graduation.

For families evaluating Connecticut business programs, Charter Oak offers the strongest earnings trajectory at competitive debt levels. The combination of top-state earnings and accessible debt makes this a standout option, especially for students who might otherwise assume they need a traditional residential university to access premium business career outcomes.

Where Charter Oak State College Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally

Charter Oak State CollegeOther business administration, management and operations 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 Charter Oak State College graduates compare to all programs nationally

Charter Oak State College graduates earn $63k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all business administration, management and operations bachelors programs nationally.

Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut

Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (22 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Charter Oak State College$62,742—$26,6300.42
Post University$61,704$63,923$27,8420.45
Albertus Magnus College$57,953$64,398$39,5460.68
University of Connecticut$57,842$71,443$21,3990.37
University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus$57,842$71,443$21,3990.37
University of Connecticut-Avery Point$57,842$71,443$21,3990.37
National Median$45,703—$26,0000.57

Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in Connecticut

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Connecticut schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Post University
Waterbury
$17,100$61,704$27,842
Albertus Magnus College
New Haven
$39,924$57,953$39,546
University of Connecticut
Storrs
$20,366$57,842$21,399
University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus
Waterbury
$17,462$57,842$21,399
University of Connecticut-Avery Point
Groton
$17,462$57,842$21,399

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 Charter Oak State College, approximately 38% 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 64 graduates with reported earnings and 75 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.