Rankings / By State

Best Business Colleges in Connecticut

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 21 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$63,108

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

60%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$25,981

Avg. Net Price

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Business colleges in Connecticut offer a range of programs aimed at preparing students for successful careers in the corporate world. With an average earning potential of $63,108 for graduates, these schools are attracting students who want to balance quality education with practical outcomes.

What truly distinguishes the top programs in this list are their graduation rates, debt levels, and post-graduation earnings. Schools like Fairfield University stand out not only for their impressive 84% graduation rate but also for their higher average earnings compared to others in the state. As you look through the list below, keep an eye on these key metrics to find a program that aligns with your goals.

For instance, Fairfield University graduates earn an average of $88,794, significantly higher than those from Western Connecticut State University, who average $59,115. However, this comes with a tradeoff; Fairfield's net price is $48,095, compared to Western's $17,604. This is the kind of contrast that can help you make a more informed decision as you explore your options.

Key Findings

Fairfield University graduates earn an average of $88,794, the highest in this ranking.

The average graduation rate across these schools is 58%, with Fairfield leading at 84%.

Western Connecticut State University has the lowest average debt at $24,147.

The University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus graduates earn $73,997, with a net price of $16,403.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 21

Avg. earnings at 10yr $63,108

Avg. graduation rate 60%

Avg. net price $25,981

Avg. median debt $24,151

How We Ranked

Business programs in Connecticut ranked by outcomes and program concentration

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Fairfield University

Fairfield, CT

Graduation84%

Earnings$88,794

Net Price$48,095

View full profile →

Western Connecticut State University

Danbury, CT

Graduation51%

Earnings$59,115

Net Price$17,604

View full profile →

Central Connecticut State University

New Britain, CT

Graduation49%

Earnings$58,562

Net Price$16,857

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Fairfield University

Fairfield, CT · 5,373 students · Private nonprofit

Fairfield University, with its vibrant campus life and 5,373 students, offers a rich educational experience in a private setting. An impressive 84% of students graduate, reflecting the strong academic support and resources available to help them succeed in their studies.

33% accepted 84% graduate $88,794 earnings

Fairfield's full profile

Western Connecticut State University

Danbury, CT · 3,511 students · Public

Western Connecticut State University in Danbury is home to 3,511 students, creating a diverse atmosphere focused on education and community engagement. Despite a graduation rate of 51%, the school supports students in finding their footing and preparing for the workforce or further studies.

87% accepted 51% graduate $59,115 earnings

Western's full profile

Central Connecticut State University

New Britain, CT · 7,822 students · Public

Central Connecticut State University, located in New Britain, hosts around 7,822 students and has a graduation rate of 49%. This campus provides a diverse environment where students can explore various fields of study while also building valuable connections within a larger university system.

73% accepted 49% graduate $58,562 earnings

Central's full profile

University of Connecticut

Storrs, CT · 19,835 students · Public

The University of Connecticut in Storrs is a public university serving over 19,800 students. It has an impressive graduation rate of 84%, which reflects the university's commitment to student success and academic support through various programs and resources.

52% accepted 84% graduate $73,997 earnings

University's full profile

Eastern Connecticut State University

Willimantic, CT · 3,418 students · Public

Eastern Connecticut State University in Willimantic enrolls around 3,400 students and focuses on a well-rounded education that combines academics with community engagement. The school's relatively high graduation rate of 58% reflects its commitment to student success, providing a supportive environment that encourages personal growth and career readiness.

83% accepted 58% graduate $56,469 earnings

Eastern's full profile

Connecticut State Community College

New Britain, CT · 33,645 students · Public

With a student body of over 33,000, Connecticut State Community College in New Britain is committed to providing accessible education for diverse learners. The college serves as a vital stepping stone for many, especially for students seeking to enter the workforce quickly or transfer to a four-year institution.

21% graduate $41,344 earnings

Connecticut's full profile

Quinnipiac University

Hamden, CT · 6,531 students · Private nonprofit

Quinnipiac University in Hamden presents a vibrant campus life for its 6,500 students, with a notable graduation rate of 77%. The university emphasizes experiential learning, providing students with opportunities for internships and networking in various fields, which can significantly enhance career prospects after graduation.

72% accepted 77% graduate $83,759 earnings

Quinnipiac's full profile

Sacred Heart University

Fairfield, CT · 7,087 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Fairfield, Sacred Heart University enrolls over 7,000 students and boasts a graduation rate of 74%. The school emphasizes a values-based education and offers a variety of programs that cater to different interests, making it an attractive option for students who seek both academic and personal development.

65% accepted 74% graduate $75,059 earnings

Sacred's full profile

University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus

Waterbury, CT · 733 students · Public

The University of Connecticut's Waterbury Campus has a close-knit community with 733 students, making it easy for individuals to forge connections. With a solid 56% graduation rate, many students find support from faculty and peers, helping them navigate their academic journey successfully.

87% accepted 56% graduate $73,997 earnings

University's full profile

#10

University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus

Hartford, CT · 1,525 students · Public

At the University of Connecticut's Hartford Campus, 1,525 students benefit from a diverse urban environment while pursuing their academic goals. The graduation rate of 65% shows that many students find the resources they need to complete their degrees and succeed in their careers.

88% accepted 65% graduate $73,997 earnings

University's full profile

#11

Albertus Magnus College

New Haven, CT · 991 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in New Haven, Albertus Magnus College, with a smaller enrollment of 991 students, offers a more intimate educational setting that can foster close relationships between peers and faculty. Despite the modest graduation rate of 49%, graduates earn a median income of $60,144 ten years after leaving, indicating that an Albertus degree can lead to strong earning potential in the job market.

59% accepted 49% graduate $60,144 earnings

Albertus's full profile

#12

University of Connecticut-Stamford

Stamford, CT · 2,432 students · Public

Located in Stamford, Connecticut, this public university supports a vibrant community of 2,432 students. With a graduation rate of 57%, it's an ideal choice for those looking for a smaller campus atmosphere while still being part of the larger University of Connecticut system.

83% accepted 57% graduate $73,997 earnings

University's full profile

#13

University of Connecticut-Avery Point

Groton, CT · 454 students · Public

In Groton, Connecticut, the University of Connecticut-Avery Point is a more compact campus with a close-knit community of just 454 students. A graduation rate of 59% signals a supportive environment where students can thrive, especially those seeking personalized attention from faculty and staff.

88% accepted 59% graduate $73,997 earnings

University's full profile

#14

Southern Connecticut State University

New Haven, CT · 6,295 students · Public

With a student population of 6,295, Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven provides a large university experience with the charm of a smaller community. The school's graduation rate is 49%, and its median earnings reach $55,043 a decade after graduation, suggesting that students can find solid career paths after completing their degrees.

91% accepted 49% graduate $55,043 earnings

Southern's full profile

#15

University of Saint Joseph

West Hartford, CT · 838 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Saint Joseph in West Hartford has a smaller student body of 838, which can create a tight-knit community atmosphere. With a graduation rate of 66%, this institution indicates a commitment to student success, and its graduates enjoy median earnings of $59,908 ten years post-graduation, reflecting the value of the education received here.

79% accepted 66% graduate $59,908 earnings

University's full profile

#16

University of Hartford

West Hartford, CT · 4,146 students · Private nonprofit

At the University of Hartford, located in West Hartford, a diverse community of 4,146 students thrives. The graduation rate is 56%, and graduates can expect to earn a median salary of $60,823 ten years after graduation, highlighting the potential for a rewarding career with a degree from this institution.

96% accepted 56% graduate $60,823 earnings

University's full profile

#17

University of New Haven

West Haven, CT · 4,841 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $60,126 ten years after enrollment, the University of New Haven reflects the potential for solid financial outcomes. This private nonprofit school in West Haven, Connecticut, supports a diverse student body of 4,841, of which 32% are Pell Grant recipients. The graduation rate stands at 61%, indicating that many students are able to successfully complete their degrees and enter the workforce.

60% accepted 61% graduate $60,126 earnings

University's full profile

#18

Mitchell College

New London, CT · 377 students · Private nonprofit

Mitchell College, located in New London, Connecticut, is a small private nonprofit institution with a close-knit community of just 377 students. The college is known for its high acceptance rate of 95%, welcoming a diverse range of students, including 38% who receive Pell Grants. Despite a graduation rate of 43%, the college's focus on individualized support helps many students navigate their educational journeys.

95% accepted 43% graduate $39,115 earnings

Mitchell's full profile

#19

University of Bridgeport

Bridgeport, CT · 1,534 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Bridgeport provides an engaging educational experience for 1,534 students in Bridgeport, Connecticut. With a graduation rate of 45% and an acceptance rate of 83%, the university strives to support a diverse student population, which includes over half of its students receiving Pell Grants (53%). This balance of accessibility and community can be particularly beneficial for those seeking a supportive academic environment.

83% accepted 45% graduate $50,323 earnings

University's full profile

#20

United States Coast Guard Academy

New London, CT · 1,108 students · Public

22% accepted 90% graduate

United's full profile

#21

Goodwin University

East Hartford, CT · 2,693 students · Private nonprofit

Goodwin University in East Hartford, Connecticut, serves a student population of 2,693 and maintains a graduation rate of 58%. The college is particularly welcoming, with 54% of its students receiving Pell Grants and an accessible acceptance rate. This environment promotes diversity and inclusivity, which can enhance the educational experience for all attendees.

58% graduate $43,596 earnings

Goodwin's full profile

While many schools have solid business programs, the numbers show that Fairfield University outperforms its peers when it comes to earnings and graduation rates. With an average earning of $88,794, it's clear why students are drawn to its business program. In contrast, Western Connecticut State University, while more affordable with a net price of $17,604, offers lower earning potential at $59,115, demonstrating the trade-offs students face.

As you sift through these rankings, consider what matters most to you. Is it the potential salary after graduation? Or perhaps the cost of attendance? Think about location, campus culture, and how well the program aligns with your career aspirations. Use this data as a starting point to weigh your priorities — there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

Ultimately, the data highlights how crucial it is to choose a college that sets you up for financial stability. The choices made today will influence your career trajectory and financial future. One family's decision could lead to a significantly brighter outlook for their student, shaping their path to success in the business world.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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