Economics at University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
UConn Waterbury's economics program offers solid value with earnings that climb impressively from $52,227 in the first year to $67,339 by year four—a 29% jump that outpaces typical career growth. While starting salaries match Connecticut's median exactly, this program ranks in the 60th percentile statewide, meaning it outperforms most other economics programs in the state. The debt load of $22,907 is reasonable, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44.
The real strength here is the earnings trajectory. That $15,000+ increase over four years suggests graduates are landing roles with genuine advancement potential, likely benefiting from Connecticut's finance and insurance sectors. Nationally, the program performs right at the median, but the strong earnings growth pattern sets it apart from programs where graduates plateau early.
For families seeking an affordable path to a respectable economics degree, UConn Waterbury delivers. The combination of moderate debt, solid starting salaries, and strong earnings growth creates a compelling value proposition. While it won't match the elite Connecticut programs like Yale or Fairfield, it offers a practical route to economic mobility at a fraction of the cost and debt burden.
Where University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all economics 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-Waterbury Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus graduates earn $52k, placing them in the 52th percentile of all economics bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut
Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (18 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus | $52,227 | $67,339 | $22,907 | 0.44 |
| Yale University | $82,617 | $125,006 | $13,250 | 0.16 |
| Fairfield University | $74,023 | $81,906 | $26,500 | 0.36 |
| Trinity College | $71,191 | $112,699 | $21,500 | 0.30 |
| Connecticut College | $62,732 | $86,772 | $25,206 | 0.40 |
| University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus | $52,227 | $67,339 | $22,907 | 0.44 |
| National Median | $51,722 | — | $22,816 | 0.44 |
Other Economics Programs in Connecticut
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Connecticut schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yale University New Haven | $64,700 | $82,617 | $13,250 |
| Fairfield University Fairfield | $56,360 | $74,023 | $26,500 |
| Trinity College Hartford | $67,420 | $71,191 | $21,500 |
| Connecticut College New London | $64,812 | $62,732 | $25,206 |
| University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus Hartford | $17,452 | $52,227 | $22,907 |
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-Waterbury Campus, approximately 50% 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 377 graduates with reported earnings and 396 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.