Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
Based on comparable engineering programs nationally, University of New Haven's graduates can expect to earn around $68,000 in their first year—a figure that positions the program well above Connecticut's median of $55,000 for engineering degrees. This estimated $13,000 premium over in-state peers suggests the program may deliver stronger industry connections or employer recognition than typical Connecticut engineering schools, though without actual data from UNH's own graduates, it's impossible to confirm this advantage is real.
The estimated debt load of $26,500 translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39, meaning graduates would owe roughly five months of their first-year salary. Nationally, this sits right at the median for engineering programs, indicating neither exceptional affordability nor troubling over-borrowing. For a private university in expensive Connecticut, this debt level is reasonable—though families should verify actual financial aid packages, as individual circumstances vary widely and these figures represent broad program averages.
The practical challenge here is uncertainty. Engineering is typically one of the safer bets in higher education, and the estimated numbers suggest a solid return. But without knowing how UNH's specific graduates actually perform—whether they match, exceed, or fall short of these peer-based projections—you're making a significant financial decision on limited information. If your child is admitted to Connecticut schools with reported outcomes (like UHartford), comparing actual track records against these estimates would provide a clearer picture of value.
Where University of New Haven Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut
Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (8 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $45,730 | $67,911* | — | $26,459* | — | |
| $47,647 | $55,076* | $80,339 | $27,000* | 0.49 | |
| National Median | — | $67,911* | — | $26,056* | 0.38 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
Engineers, All Other
Energy Engineers, Except Wind and Solar
Mechatronics Engineers
Microsystems Engineers
Photonics Engineers
Robotics Engineers
Nanosystems Engineers
Wind Energy Engineers
Solar Energy Systems Engineers
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 New Haven, approximately 27% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 47 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.