Communication Disorders Sciences and Services at University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Starting salaries around $22,000 represent a genuine challenge for Communication Disorders graduates at UConn Hartford, though there's an important caveat: this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, making it less reliable than larger samples. What's particularly striking is that despite ranking in just the 25th percentile nationally, this program sits at the 60th percentile among Connecticut schools—meaning the state's other programs struggle even more with early earnings. The $25,000 debt load isn't excessive in absolute terms, but with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.12, graduates face more than a full year's salary in loans.
The low first-year earnings likely reflect the reality that most Communication Disorders students plan to pursue graduate degrees (required for careers as speech-language pathologists), so many take lower-paying assistant positions or work part-time while continuing their education. If your child isn't committed to graduate school, this major becomes harder to justify financially. However, for students using this as a stepping stone to a master's program, the modest debt keeps options open better than borrowing $40,000+ for the bachelor's degree.
Given the small sample size and UConn's reputation as Connecticut's flagship system, these numbers shouldn't definitively rule out the program. But they do underscore the need for a clear graduate school plan and realistic expectations about entry-level earnings in this field.
Where University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all communication disorders sciences and services bachelors's programs nationally
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 University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus graduates earn $22k, placing them in the 25th percentile of all communication disorders sciences and services bachelors programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut
Communication Disorders Sciences and Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (6 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus | $22,345 | — | $25,000 | 1.12 |
| Southern Connecticut State University | $24,025 | $63,643 | $21,625 | 0.90 |
| University of Connecticut | $22,345 | — | $25,000 | 1.12 |
| University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus | $22,345 | — | $25,000 | 1.12 |
| University of Connecticut-Avery Point | $22,345 | — | $25,000 | 1.12 |
| University of Connecticut-Stamford | $22,345 | — | $25,000 | 1.12 |
| National Median | $24,702 | — | $22,362 | 0.91 |
Other Communication Disorders Sciences and Services Programs in Connecticut
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Connecticut schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southern Connecticut State University New Haven | $12,828 | $24,025 | $21,625 |
| University of Connecticut Storrs | $20,366 | $22,345 | $25,000 |
| University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus Waterbury | $17,462 | $22,345 | $25,000 |
| University of Connecticut-Avery Point Groton | $17,462 | $22,345 | $25,000 |
| University of Connecticut-Stamford Stamford | $17,472 | $22,345 | $25,000 |
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-Hartford Campus, approximately 46% 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 22 graduates with reported earnings and 43 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.