Computer Science at University of Connecticut
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
UConn's computer science program hits the right balance for Connecticut families: starting salaries near $80,000 that jump to $106,000 within four years. That 33% earnings growth trajectory outpaces typical career progression and places graduates squarely in the 71st percentile nationally—well above the $71,000 national median for CS programs. The $25,000 debt load translates to a manageable 0.31 ratio, meaning graduates earn back their entire debt roughly three times over in their first year alone.
Within Connecticut's limited CS landscape (just 11 programs), UConn matches the state median for starting pay but delivers something more valuable: consistent upward mobility. While Connecticut College edges slightly higher at $86,000, UConn's moderate admission standards (54% acceptance rate) and established reputation make it accessible to a broader range of students. The 24% Pell grant rate suggests economic diversity without compromising outcomes.
The straightforward math here: your child graduates with roughly half the debt-to-earnings ratio that triggers financial stress (generally considered problematic above 0.60), while earning above three-quarters of CS graduates nationwide. For families weighing flagship state universities against private alternatives, UConn delivers competitive outcomes at flagship pricing—particularly relevant since all five UConn campuses report identical median earnings, giving families geographic flexibility without sacrificing earning potential.
Where University of Connecticut Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer science 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 graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of Connecticut graduates earn $80k, placing them in the 71th percentile of all computer science 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
Computer Science bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (11 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Connecticut | $79,605 | $105,734 | $25,000 | 0.31 |
| Connecticut College | $86,403 | — | $26,352 | 0.30 |
| University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus | $79,605 | $105,734 | $25,000 | 0.31 |
| University of Connecticut-Avery Point | $79,605 | $105,734 | $25,000 | 0.31 |
| University of Connecticut-Stamford | $79,605 | $105,734 | $25,000 | 0.31 |
| University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus | $79,605 | $105,734 | $25,000 | 0.31 |
| National Median | $70,950 | — | $23,374 | 0.33 |
Other Computer Science Programs in Connecticut
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Connecticut schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connecticut College New London | $64,812 | $86,403 | $26,352 |
| University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus Waterbury | $17,462 | $79,605 | $25,000 |
| University of Connecticut-Avery Point Groton | $17,462 | $79,605 | $25,000 |
| University of Connecticut-Stamford Stamford | $17,472 | $79,605 | $25,000 |
| University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus Hartford | $17,452 | $79,605 | $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, 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 68 graduates with reported earnings and 73 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.