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 fourโa 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
Earnings Distribution
How University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus | $52,227 | $67,339 | +29% |
| Yale University | $82,617 | $125,006 | +51% |
| Trinity College | $71,191 | $112,699 | +58% |
| Connecticut College | $62,732 | $86,772 | +38% |
| Fairfield University | $74,023 | $81,906 | +11% |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $17,462 | $52,227 | $67,339 | $22,907 | 0.44 | |
| $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 | |
| $17,452 | $52,227 | $67,339 | $22,907 | 0.44 | |
| National Median | โ | $51,722 | โ | $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 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.