Economics at University of Connecticut
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
UConn's Economics program delivers solid middle-of-the-pack performance that becomes more impressive over time. With first-year earnings of $52,227 and debt of $22,907, graduates start with a manageable debt-to-income ratio of 0.44—well within the comfortable range for most families. Among Connecticut's 18 economics programs, UConn ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings while maintaining typical debt levels.
The real strength emerges in the earnings trajectory. Graduates see robust 29% income growth by year four, reaching $67,339—a pattern that suggests strong career advancement potential. While UConn can't match the elite private schools like Yale ($82,617) or Fairfield ($74,023), it delivers nearly identical outcomes to its Hartford campus at what's likely a lower total cost of attendance for in-state students.
For Connecticut families, this represents excellent value. UConn provides access to a well-regarded state flagship education with economics outcomes that meaningfully exceed the national median, all while keeping debt burdens reasonable. The combination of moderate starting salaries, strong growth potential, and manageable debt makes this a financially sound choice that positions graduates well for long-term career success.
Where University of Connecticut 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 graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of Connecticut 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 | $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, 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 377 graduates with reported earnings and 396 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.