Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Yale University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Yale's liberal arts program earns graduates $61,133 in their first year—68% more than the national median and 38% more than Connecticut's typical graduate in this field. While Yale often gets attention for its pre-professional programs, this data suggests its humanities education delivers exceptional early career outcomes, even in a major often dismissed as impractical. With just $15,750 in typical debt (less than three months' salary), graduates carry about half the debt load of their Connecticut peers while earning significantly more.
The 95th percentile national ranking tells the real story here: Yale transforms what's typically a modest-earning degree into a launch pad for high-paying careers. Whether through alumni networks, credential prestige, or the caliber of students attracted to a 5% acceptance rate, something is working. Even within Connecticut—home to other strong liberal arts programs—Yale graduates out-earn the state median by nearly $17,000 annually.
For families who can afford Yale or qualify for its need-based aid, the combination of minimal debt and strong earnings makes this a rare example of a liberal arts degree that pays off immediately. The 0.26 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates aren't trapped in low-paying "passion" jobs—they have genuine financial flexibility right out of college.
Where Yale University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities 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 Yale University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Yale University graduates earn $61k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities bachelors programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (22 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yale University | $61,133 | — | $15,750 | 0.26 |
| Charter Oak State College | $44,615 | $50,683 | $25,000 | 0.56 |
| University of Connecticut | $44,240 | $47,843 | $22,000 | 0.50 |
| University of Connecticut-Avery Point | $44,240 | $47,843 | $22,000 | 0.50 |
| University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus | $44,240 | $47,843 | $22,000 | 0.50 |
| University of Connecticut-Stamford | $44,240 | $47,843 | $22,000 | 0.50 |
| National Median | $36,340 | — | $27,000 | 0.74 |
Other Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities Programs in Connecticut
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Connecticut schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charter Oak State College New Britain | $8,506 | $44,615 | $25,000 |
| University of Connecticut Storrs | $20,366 | $44,240 | $22,000 |
| University of Connecticut-Avery Point Groton | $17,462 | $44,240 | $22,000 |
| University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus Waterbury | $17,462 | $44,240 | $22,000 |
| University of Connecticut-Stamford Stamford | $17,472 | $44,240 | $22,000 |
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 Yale University, approximately 19% 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 54 graduates with reported earnings and 34 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.