At $8,865/yr net price, Connecticut State Community College graduates earn $41,344/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $7,344/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $8,865 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $35,460 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $41,344/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$7,344/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 18.9% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $9,200 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $8,698/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $8,815/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $9,147/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $9,212/yr |
| $110,001+ | $10,992/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $67,846 | $10,000 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $53,775 | |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Associate | $47,260 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $36,992 | |
| Social Work. | Associate | $31,423 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Associate | $30,771 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Associate | $30,771 | |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Associate | $27,307 |
The Risk Factor
18.9% of students at Connecticut State Community College graduate within 6 years. Fewer than half of students complete their degree. If you don't graduate, the financial investment may not pay off.
Analysis
Connecticut State Community College delivers mixed financial returns that depend heavily on your program choice. The nursing program stands out with graduates earning $67,846 annually, making it one of the strongest ROI options in the state's community college system. Allied health programs also perform well at $53,775, while accounting graduates earn $47,260.
The college's main financial weakness is its 19% graduation rate, meaning four out of five students leave without completing their degree. This dramatically increases your risk of taking on debt without the credential needed to access higher-paying jobs. Liberal arts graduates earn just $36,992, barely above the state median for high school graduates, while social work majors face particularly poor returns at $31,423.
Your debt load will likely stay manageable at a median of $9,200, and the $8,865 annual net price keeps costs reasonable. The school works best for students entering healthcare fields who can complete their programs and immediately access Connecticut's strong medical job market. You should avoid this school if you're considering liberal arts or social work, where the combination of low completion rates and weak earnings creates poor financial outcomes.
Connecticut residents qualify for the state's community college promise program, which can further reduce costs for qualifying students. Focus on the nursing or allied health programs where completion rates tend to be higher and job prospects more concrete. Skip this option if you're unsure about your major or need extensive academic support to finish your degree.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Connecticut State Community College worth the cost?
Connecticut State Community College offers low costs at $8,865 annually with manageable debt of $9,200, but the 19% graduation rate raises concerns about completion. The value depends heavily on your program choice and ability to finish.
What programs at Connecticut State Community College have the best ROI?
Nursing programs lead with graduates earning $67,846 annually, followed by allied health fields at $53,775. Liberal arts and social work programs show weaker returns at $36,992 and $31,423 respectively.
How much debt do Connecticut State Community College graduates typically have?
Graduates carry a median debt of $9,200, which is relatively low for higher education. However, with only 19% of students graduating, many may accumulate debt without completing their programs.
Do Connecticut State Community College graduates earn good salaries?
Overall graduate earnings average $41,344 after 10 years, which is modest but varies significantly by field. Healthcare program graduates earn substantially more than those in general studies or social services.