Analysis
Quinnipiac's mechanical engineering program is small and unproven, with fewer than 30 graduates in the cohort—meaning these numbers could swing dramatically with just a handful of different outcomes. That said, the data we have shows first-year earnings of $65,640 trailing both the Connecticut state median ($74,772) and national average ($70,744) by meaningful margins. You're looking at roughly $9,000 less than what graduates earn from UConn's engineering program, which is the dominant player in the state.
The positive story here is debt: at $27,000, graduates carry slightly more than the state median but remain well below national levels, ranking in just the 5th percentile for debt burden. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41 is manageable, suggesting graduates can handle repayment even with the lower starting salaries. However, finishing in the 40th percentile among Connecticut programs means half of the state's mechanical engineering graduates are earning more right out of the gate.
For parents, the calculation is straightforward. If your child can get into UConn—which has similar admission selectivity—they're likely to earn $9,000 more annually right away while paying similar debt levels. The small program size at Quinnipiac might offer a more personalized experience, but you're paying a substantial earnings premium for that intimacy. Unless there's a compelling non-financial reason to choose Quinnipiac, the flagship university system offers better economic returns for mechanical engineering in Connecticut.
Where Quinnipiac University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mechanical engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Quinnipiac University graduates compare to all programs nationally
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Quinnipiac UniversityHamden | $53,090 | $65,640 | — | $27,000 | 0.41 |
 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
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 25 graduates with reported earnings and 25 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.