Median Earnings (1yr)
$40,184
85th percentile (95th in CT)
Median Debt
$24,500
1% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.61
Manageable
Sample Size
37
Adequate data

Analysis

Quinnipiac's journalism program stands out sharply in Connecticut, where it produces graduates earning more than double the state median of $24,026. That 95th percentile state ranking isn't just marginally better—it's a fundamental difference in outcomes. Even within the school's first year, graduates out-earn the typical Connecticut journalism major by $16,000, and by year four, that gap widens to over $30,000. Nationally, this program also performs well above average, landing in the 85th percentile.

The debt load of $24,500 is entirely manageable here, representing just over half of first-year earnings—a ratio that puts most graduates in comfortable repayment territory. More importantly, earnings jump 38% by year four, reaching $55,623, which means graduates aren't stuck in entry-level pay scales. This trajectory matters for a field often criticized for low wages and limited advancement.

For families worried about journalism's reputation as a financially risky major, Quinnipiac's track record should ease those concerns. The program costs roughly the same as competitors but delivers dramatically different outcomes. While the moderate sample size means individual results will vary, the gap between Quinnipiac and other Connecticut options is too large to ignore. If your child is committed to journalism and willing to attend school in Connecticut, this program offers a clear advantage over the alternatives.

Where Quinnipiac University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all journalism bachelors's programs nationally

Quinnipiac UniversityOther journalism 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 Quinnipiac University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Quinnipiac University graduates earn $40k, placing them in the 85th percentile of all journalism 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

Journalism bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (9 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Quinnipiac University$40,184$55,623$24,5000.61
Southern Connecticut State University$36,153$21,0470.58
Central Connecticut State University$34,577$26,9090.78
University of Connecticut-Avery Point$24,026$56,761$23,2500.97
University of Connecticut-Stamford$24,026$56,761$23,2500.97
University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus$24,026$56,761$23,2500.97
National Median$34,515$24,2500.70

Other Journalism Programs in Connecticut

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Connecticut schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Southern Connecticut State University
New Haven
$12,828$36,153$21,047
Central Connecticut State University
New Britain
$12,460$34,577$26,909
University of Connecticut-Avery Point
Groton
$17,462$24,026$23,250
University of Connecticut-Stamford
Stamford
$17,472$24,026$23,250
University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus
Hartford
$17,452$24,026$23,250

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 Quinnipiac University, approximately 16% 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 58 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.