Rankings / By State

Best Master's Programs in Connecticut

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 24 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$67,871

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

66%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$27,525

Avg. Net Price

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Finding the right master's program in Connecticut can feel overwhelming, yet these institutions share a commitment to strong graduate outcomes. With an average earning potential of $67,871, these programs are designed to equip students for a successful career.

What sets these schools apart is their focus on important metrics like earnings, graduation rates, student debt, and mobility. These factors help paint a clearer picture of what students can expect after graduation. The schools listed below have demonstrated strong performance in these areas, which are crucial when considering a financial investment in higher education.

For instance, Yale University boasts impressive earnings of $100,533 with a graduation rate of 96%, while the University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus reports earnings of $73,997 but only a 56% graduation rate. This contrast highlights how outcomes can vary significantly among different programs, influencing your decision-making process.

Key Findings

Yale University graduates earn an average of $100,533, significantly higher than the average earnings of $67,871.

The University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus has a graduation rate of just 56%, compared to Yale's impressive 96%.

Wesleyan University has a net price of $30,177, which is notably higher than the $10,875 at UConn's Waterbury Campus.

Trinity College graduates have an average debt of $23,000, which is similar to UConn-Hartford's $21,500, despite differing graduation rates.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 24

Avg. earnings at 10yr $67,871

Avg. graduation rate 66%

Avg. net price $27,525

Avg. median debt $23,925

How We Ranked

Master's programs in Connecticut ranked by graduate outcomes

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

Yale University

New Haven, CT

Graduation96%

Earnings$100,533

Net Price$23,777

View full profile →

Wesleyan University

Middletown, CT

Graduation92%

Earnings$73,897

Net Price$30,177

View full profile →

University of Connecticut

Storrs, CT

Graduation84%

Earnings$73,997

Net Price$25,097

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Yale University

New Haven, CT · 6,758 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Yale University in New Haven, CT, is a place where students achieve their academic goals and go on to earn a median salary of $100,533 a decade after graduation. This is backed by a very low debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.13, indicating that graduates comfortably manage their student debt relative to their earnings. The environment here fosters not only academic excellence but also a strong network of support, making it an ideal choice for ambitious students.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Wesleyan University

Middletown, CT · 3,067 students · Private nonprofit

Wesleyan University, located in Middletown, CT, has a vibrant community where 92% of students graduate, paving the way for strong post-college success. Graduates earn a median income of $73,897 ten years after completing their degree, which reflects the quality of education and opportunities available. The university offers a close-knit atmosphere that encourages creativity and critical thinking, attracting students who are looking for a passionate and engaged community.

16% accepted 92% graduate $73,897 earnings

Wesleyan's full profile

University of Connecticut

Storrs, CT · 19,835 students · Public

Home to nearly 20,000 students, the University of Connecticut in Storrs is a vibrant hub of academic opportunity. Graduating 84% of its students, it reflects a strong commitment to student success and engagement, offering a rich collegiate experience supported by a diverse array of programs.

52% accepted 84% graduate $73,997 earnings

University's full profile

Connecticut College

New London, CT · 1,937 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 83%, Connecticut College in New London demonstrates a solid commitment to student success. This private nonprofit school has a vibrant community where 14% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating a supportive environment for lower-income families seeking a quality education.

37% accepted 83% graduate $75,001 earnings

Connecticut's full profile

University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus

Waterbury, CT · 733 students · Public

At the University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus, students benefit from a welcoming environment that supports a diverse student body. Despite a graduation rate of 56%, the median earnings for graduates is an impressive $73,997 a decade post-graduation, indicating good career prospects for students who navigate their studies effectively. The campus reflects the community’s commitment to education, making it a solid choice for individuals seeking a supportive academic environment.

87% accepted 56% graduate $73,997 earnings

University's full profile

Western Connecticut State University

Danbury, CT · 3,511 students · Public

Western Connecticut State University in Danbury is an accessible option with an 87% acceptance rate, making it a welcoming place for many students. With a smaller graduation rate of 51%, this public university focuses on providing opportunities for students who may need additional support as they transition to higher education.

87% accepted 51% graduate $59,115 earnings

Western's full profile

University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus

Hartford, CT · 1,525 students · Public

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 88%, the University of Connecticut's Hartford campus is an accessible option for many students. The campus serves about 1,525 students, creating a close-knit community where individuals can thrive academically and socially in the heart of Connecticut's capital.

88% accepted 65% graduate $73,997 earnings

University's full profile

University of Connecticut-Stamford

Stamford, CT · 2,432 students · Public

The Stamford campus of the University of Connecticut, with around 2,432 students, offers a unique urban experience that combines academic rigor with the advantages of city life. With an acceptance rate of 83%, this campus is a great choice for those looking for a smaller community where they can receive personalized attention from faculty and peers alike.

83% accepted 57% graduate $73,997 earnings

University's full profile

University of Connecticut-Avery Point

Groton, CT · 454 students · Public

Located in Groton, the Avery Point campus of the University of Connecticut serves a smaller student body of 454, allowing for a more intimate educational experience. With an acceptance rate of 88%, it invites students who may be looking for a supportive community while pursuing their academic goals.

88% accepted 59% graduate $73,997 earnings

University's full profile

#10

Central Connecticut State University

New Britain, CT · 7,822 students · Public

Central Connecticut State University in New Britain draws a diverse student body with a 73% acceptance rate. While the graduation rate is lower at 49%, this public university emphasizes inclusivity and support for all students, particularly those who may need extra guidance throughout their college journey.

73% accepted 49% graduate $58,562 earnings

Central's full profile

#11

Fairfield University

Fairfield, CT · 5,373 students · Private nonprofit

Fairfield University in Fairfield presents a strong academic environment, reflected in its impressive 84% graduation rate. This private nonprofit university caters to students seeking a robust education in a supportive community, though it has a competitive acceptance rate of 33%.

33% accepted 84% graduate $88,794 earnings

Fairfield's full profile

#12

Trinity College

Hartford, CT · 2,146 students · Private nonprofit

Trinity College in Hartford, CT, nurtures a rich academic culture with an 83% graduation rate, preparing students for successful careers. Graduates earn a median salary of $90,779 ten years after graduation, reflecting the quality of education and the opportunities available through the college's extensive networks. The college fosters an engaging atmosphere where students can evolve academically and personally, attracting those who are eager to make a mark.

29% accepted 83% graduate $90,779 earnings

Trinity's full profile

#13

Eastern Connecticut State University

Willimantic, CT · 3,418 students · Public

With a median earning of $56,469 ten years after graduation, Eastern Connecticut State University positions its graduates for solid financial stability. The school has a welcoming acceptance rate of 83%, making it a great option for students looking for a supportive environment where they can thrive academically and socially.

83% accepted 58% graduate $56,469 earnings

Eastern's full profile

#14

University of Saint Joseph

West Hartford, CT · 838 students · Private nonprofit

At the University of Saint Joseph, students enjoy a higher graduation rate of 66%, which suggests strong support systems for academic success. Located in West Hartford, this private nonprofit institution is designed for those seeking a close-knit community and personalized attention from faculty, which can be crucial in their educational journey.

79% accepted 66% graduate $59,908 earnings

University's full profile

#15

Quinnipiac University

Hamden, CT · 6,531 students · Private nonprofit

Quinnipiac University in Hamden attracts students with its impressive median earnings of $83,759 after ten years, significantly higher than many other institutions. With a graduation rate of 77%, the university provides a strong academic foundation, ensuring students are well-prepared for their careers and future challenges.

72% accepted 77% graduate $83,759 earnings

Quinnipiac's full profile

#16

Southern Connecticut State University

New Haven, CT · 6,295 students · Public

Southern Connecticut State University is an inviting option for students seeking an affordable education in New Haven, with a strong acceptance rate of 91%. The school has a graduation rate of 49%, which highlights the challenges some students may face, but also suggests opportunities for improvement and support for persistence.

91% accepted 49% graduate $55,043 earnings

Southern's full profile

#17

University of Hartford

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

With a generous acceptance rate of 96%, the University of Hartford welcomes a diverse array of students. This private nonprofit institution emphasizes a hands-on learning experience, perfect for those eager to gain practical skills alongside their academic studies.

96% accepted 56% graduate $60,823 earnings

University's full profile

#18

University of New Haven

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

The University of New Haven is a dynamic option for students who want to blend their studies with hands-on learning experiences. With a 61% graduation rate, this school highlights its commitment to preparing students for successful careers in various fields, creating a community where ambition is encouraged.

60% accepted 61% graduate $60,126 earnings

University's full profile

#19

Sacred Heart University

Fairfield, CT · 7,087 students · Private nonprofit

Sacred Heart University in Fairfield is a vibrant community with a focus on student success, reflected in its solid 74% graduation rate. Here, students can engage in a variety of programs that are designed to cater to their interests while preparing them for real-world challenges.

65% accepted 74% graduate $75,059 earnings

Sacred's full profile

#20

Mitchell College

New London, CT · 377 students · Private nonprofit

Mitchell College, though smaller with just 377 students, offers an intimate learning environment where personalized attention is a hallmark. Its acceptance rate of 95% reflects a commitment to inclusivity, making it an appealing choice for students who may thrive in a less traditional academic setting.

95% accepted 43% graduate $39,115 earnings

Mitchell's full profile

#21

Albertus Magnus College

New Haven, CT · 991 students · Private nonprofit

Located in New Haven, Albertus Magnus College has a close-knit community with about 1,000 students, making it an inviting place for those seeking personal connections. The school emphasizes a values-based education, helping students not only grow academically but also develop a strong sense of ethics and social responsibility.

59% accepted 49% graduate $60,144 earnings

Albertus's full profile

#22

United States Coast Guard Academy

New London, CT · 1,108 students · Public

22% accepted 90% graduate

United's full profile

#23

University of Bridgeport

Bridgeport, CT · 1,534 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Bridgeport, situated in Bridgeport, welcomes a diverse student body of over 1,500, making it a vibrant environment for collaboration and growth. Known for its inclusive atmosphere, the university supports a wide range of academic programs that cater to various interests and career paths, ensuring students can find their niche.

83% accepted 45% graduate $50,323 earnings

University's full profile

#24

Goodwin University

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

Goodwin University in East Hartford has a robust student population of nearly 2,700, committed to education that is both accessible and relevant. The university prioritizes hands-on learning and community engagement, which resonates well with students looking for real-world applications of their studies.

58% graduate $43,596 earnings

Goodwin's full profile

When comparing schools, the differences in graduate outcomes can be striking. For example, Yale University's graduates reach an average earning of $100,533, largely due to its high graduation rate of 96%. In contrast, the University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus, while also showing decent earnings at $73,997, struggles with a graduation rate of just 56%. This disparity highlights the importance of not just choosing a school based on earnings but also evaluating the completion rates that lead to those earnings.

As you weigh your options, consider how these outcomes align with your personal priorities. Think about factors like location, program fit, and the campus experience, alongside financial implications such as net price and potential debt. A school may have high earnings, but if its graduation rate is low, it might not be the best fit for your goals.

Ultimately, this data underscores the significance of informed choices on the path from college to a stable life. A single decision about a master's program can significantly impact a family's financial future. By closely examining these outcomes, you can make a choice that supports both your career aspirations and financial well-being.

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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