Analysis
UConn's biomedical engineering program hits an impressive stride after the first year on the job. While graduates start at $66,000—slightly above the national median—their earnings jump 28% to $84,625 by year four, significantly outpacing the typical trajectory for this degree. That later-career acceleration matters more than the modest starting point, especially combined with below-average debt of $26,974. The 0.41 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe less than five months of their first-year salary, leaving room to save or invest early while their peers at pricier programs are still grinding through payments.
Within Connecticut, this program ties at the top with other UConn campuses—though biomedical engineering only exists at nine schools statewide, so the competitive field is limited. Nationally, UConn lands solidly in the middle (56th percentile), but the debt advantage gives it an edge over programs where students borrow more for similar outcomes. The moderate sample size suggests steady enrollment without data reliability concerns.
For families weighing whether biomedical engineering justifies four years of study, UConn presents a clear case: manageable debt, strong earnings growth, and outcomes that improve substantially as graduates gain experience. The program won't make your child the highest earner in year one, but the upward trajectory and financial breathing room make it a sound choice for Connecticut residents especially.
Where University of Connecticut Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all biomedical/medical engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Connecticut 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 | $66,075 | $84,625 | +28% |
| University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus | $66,075 | $84,625 | +28% |
| University of Connecticut-Avery Point | $66,075 | $84,625 | +28% |
| University of Connecticut-Stamford | $66,075 | $84,625 | +28% |
| University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus | $66,075 | $84,625 | +28% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut
Biomedical/Medical Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (9 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $20,366 | $66,075 | $84,625 | $26,974 | 0.41 | |
| $17,462 | $66,075 | $84,625 | $26,974 | 0.41 | |
| $17,462 | $66,075 | $84,625 | $26,974 | 0.41 | |
| $17,472 | $66,075 | $84,625 | $26,974 | 0.41 | |
| $17,452 | $66,075 | $84,625 | $26,974 | 0.41 | |
| National Median | — | $64,660 | — | $23,246 | 0.36 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with biomedical/medical engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers
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 University of Connecticut, approximately 24% 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 67 graduates with reported earnings and 104 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.