Analysis
Engineering physics programs nationally produce first-year earnings around $57,000, and UConn Avery Point's estimated debt load of $24,250 would mean graduates carry less than half their starting salary in loans—a manageable ratio by any standard. Similar bachelor's programs suggest debt that could be repaid within a few years while still building savings, assuming graduates enter typical engineering roles.
The challenge is that we're working entirely with estimates here. With only six engineering physics programs nationwide reporting debt data and eight reporting earnings, there's limited visibility into how this specific campus prepares students compared to traditional engineering schools. UConn Avery Point serves a substantial Pell-eligible population and maintains an accessible admissions profile, which could mean extra support for first-generation students—or it could indicate less competitive placement into high-paying engineering firms. The branch campus setting raises questions about research opportunities and industry connections that often differentiate engineering physics graduates.
If your child is committed to this specialized field and values staying near Groton, the debt picture looks reasonable enough to proceed. But given the complete lack of actual outcome data, insist on talking to recent graduates about their job placement and graduate school admissions before committing. Engineering physics is niche enough that the school's specific industry relationships matter enormously.
Where University of Connecticut-Avery Point Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all engineering physics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Engineering Physics bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $17,462 | $57,457* | — | $24,250* | — | |
| $21,186 | $72,858* | $87,900 | $21,500* | 0.30 | |
| $8,315 | $68,379* | $75,848 | $27,000* | 0.39 | |
| $16,004 | $64,304* | $92,842 | $20,136* | 0.31 | |
| $9,708 | $58,025* | $67,485 | $19,521* | 0.34 | |
| $42,304 | $56,889* | — | $23,667* | 0.42 | |
| National Median | — | $57,457* | — | $24,706* | 0.43 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with engineering physics graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Physicists
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
Engineers, All Other
Energy Engineers, Except Wind and Solar
Mechatronics Engineers
Microsystems Engineers
Photonics Engineers
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 University of Connecticut-Avery Point, approximately 34% 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 national median of 8 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.