Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release).
Analysis
Fairfield's mechanical engineering program starts behind the pack but demonstrates impressive momentum. First-year graduates earn $62,846—roughly $12,000 below Connecticut's median for mechanical engineering programs and landing in just the 25th percentile statewide. This puts Fairfield grads at a notable disadvantage compared to UConn's various campuses, which all clock in near $75,000. However, the 37% earnings jump to $86,000 by year four suggests graduates are catching up as they gain experience, ultimately surpassing both state and national benchmarks.
The debt load of $26,876 sits slightly above Connecticut's typical $23,000, though the 0.43 debt-to-earnings ratio remains manageable. The real question is whether that first-year earnings gap matters for your family's situation. If your child needs to start paying loans immediately or contribute to household expenses right after graduation, that $12,000 deficit compared to in-state alternatives is significant. The strong four-year number indicates the degree has value, but Connecticut families should scrutinize whether Fairfield's smaller program (evidenced by moderate sample size) justifies the initial earnings penalty when UConn offers better starting salaries at likely lower in-state tuition.
Where Fairfield University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mechanical engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Fairfield 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fairfield University | $62,846 | $85,931 | +37% |
| Central Connecticut State University | $74,676 | $82,394 | +10% |
| University of Connecticut | $74,869 | $82,004 | +10% |
| University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus | $74,869 | $82,004 | +10% |
| University of Connecticut-Avery Point | $74,869 | $82,004 | +10% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut
Mechanical Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (13 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Fairfield UniversityFairfield | $56,360 | $62,846 | $85,931 | $26,876 | 0.43 |
 University of Connecticut-Waterbury CampusWaterbury | $17,462 | $74,869 | $82,004 | $23,000 | 0.31 |
 University of ConnecticutStorrs | $20,366 | $74,869 | $82,004 | $23,000 | 0.31 |
 University of Connecticut-Hartford CampusHartford | $17,452 | $74,869 | $82,004 | $23,000 | 0.31 |
 University of Connecticut-StamfordStamford | $17,472 | $74,869 | $82,004 | $23,000 | 0.31 |
 University of Connecticut-Avery PointGroton | $17,462 | $74,869 | $82,004 | $23,000 | 0.31 |
| National Median | — | $70,744 | — | $24,755 | 0.35 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with mechanical engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Aerospace Engineers
Mechanical Engineers
Fuel Cell Engineers
Automotive Engineers
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
Cost Estimators
Explore Related Programs
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 Fairfield University, approximately 7% 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 31 graduates with reported earnings and 36 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.