Mechanical Engineering at Fairfield University

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.