Analysis
Connecticut's computer engineering programs cluster tightly around $83,000 in first-year earnings, and Trinity's estimated outcomes align with this state benchmark—placing it near the national 75th percentile. While we're working with estimates here (the graduate sample was too small to report), the comparison to peer programs suggests solid earning potential paired with manageable debt of roughly $26,000.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32 translates to about four months of gross income, well within the comfort zone for STEM fields. Similar programs nationally carry slightly less debt (median of $24,500), but the difference is modest enough that it shouldn't dramatically alter repayment timelines. What matters more is whether the estimated $83,000 salary materializes, and Connecticut's tech corridor—with its insurance, aerospace, and finance sectors—has historically supported strong outcomes for computer engineering graduates.
The real question is value relative to cost. Trinity's selective profile (34% admission rate, 1396 average SAT) suggests smaller class sizes and potentially stronger networking, but you're likely paying liberal arts college tuition for outcomes that UConn's campuses reportedly achieve at state school prices. If the full sticker price significantly exceeds the estimated debt figure here, that gap deserves scrutiny. For families comfortable with Trinity's price point and prioritizing the small-college experience, the projected earnings support the investment—just recognize you're betting on estimates, not this school's proven track record in this specific major.
Where Trinity College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut
Computer Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (12 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Trinity CollegeHartford | $67,420 | $82,924* | — | $26,146* | — |
 University of ConnecticutStorrs | $20,366 | $82,924* | $91,841 | $20,108* | 0.24 |
 University of Connecticut-Waterbury CampusWaterbury | $17,462 | $82,924* | $91,841 | $20,108* | 0.24 |
 University of Connecticut-Avery PointGroton | $17,462 | $82,924* | $91,841 | $20,108* | 0.24 |
 University of Connecticut-StamfordStamford | $17,472 | $82,924* | $91,841 | $20,108* | 0.24 |
 University of Connecticut-Hartford CampusHartford | $17,452 | $82,924* | $91,841 | $20,108* | 0.24 |
| National Median | — | $78,952* | — | $24,500* | 0.31 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Computer Hardware Engineers
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
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 Trinity College, approximately 15% 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 5 similar programs in CT. Actual outcomes may vary.