Analysis
Similar economics programs across Connecticut suggest first-year earnings around $52,200—right in line with what economics graduates nationally can expect. The estimated debt load of roughly $23,000 aligns closely with both state and national norms, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio that should allow for comfortable repayment while building career momentum.
What's worth noting is Connecticut's unusually wide range for economics outcomes. While peer programs at Southern Connecticut State suggest middle-of-the-pack results, the state's top programs produce starting salaries 25-50% higher. This isn't necessarily a knock on the program—economics careers often depend heavily on where you land your first job and what connections you make—but it does mean the estimated $52,200 represents a conservative starting point rather than a ceiling.
For families looking at an affordable path to an economics degree, the estimated numbers here work: debt under $25,000 for a credential that typically opens doors to business, finance, and analysis roles. Just understand these figures come from comparable Connecticut programs, not tracked outcomes for Southern Connecticut State specifically. The real question is whether your student can leverage internships and career services to aim for the higher end of Connecticut's economics salary range.
Where Southern Connecticut State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all economics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut
Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (18 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $12,828 | $52,227* | — | $22,907* | — | |
| $64,700 | $82,617* | $125,006 | $13,250* | 0.16 | |
| $56,360 | $74,023* | $81,906 | $26,500* | 0.36 | |
| $67,420 | $71,191* | $112,699 | $21,500* | 0.30 | |
| $64,812 | $62,732* | $86,772 | $25,206* | 0.40 | |
| $20,366 | $52,227* | $67,339 | $22,907* | 0.44 | |
| National Median | — | $51,722* | — | $22,816* | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with economics graduates
Economists
Environmental Economists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Statisticians
Biostatisticians
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists
Search Marketing Strategists
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Survey Researchers
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 Southern Connecticut State University, approximately 37% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 11 similar programs in CT. Actual outcomes may vary.