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Best Nursing Colleges in Connecticut

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 20 schools · Agent Insights
20
Schools Analyzed
$63,108
Avg. Earnings (10yr)
58%
Avg. Graduation Rate
$25,981
Avg. Net Price

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Choosing the right nursing college can feel overwhelming, especially in a state like Connecticut, where options are plentiful. Each institution on this list shares a commitment to training future healthcare professionals, but they differ significantly in outcomes and financial implications.

What sets the top nursing colleges apart is their performance in key areas: graduate rates, earnings, and student debt. In this ranking, we focus on how well graduates fare after leaving school, their ability to manage debt, and the overall completion rates of their programs. These factors paint a clearer picture of what students can expect when they enroll.

For instance, the University of Connecticut in Storrs boasts an impressive 84% graduation rate, significantly higher than the 56% rate at the Waterbury campus. However, while Storrs has a higher net price at $25,097, both schools report the same average earnings of $73,997. This contrast highlights the trade-offs students face when choosing between programs with different financial commitments and outcomes.

Key Findings

Graduation rates vary from 56% to 84%, showing a significant difference in student success.

All top schools report average earnings of $73,997, indicating strong job prospects post-graduation.

Net prices range from $10,875 to $25,097, reflecting varying financial burdens for students.

The average graduate debt stands at $21,500, which is essential to consider when weighing options.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 20
Avg. earnings at 10yr $63,108
Avg. graduation rate 58%
Avg. net price $25,981
Avg. median debt $24,151

How We Ranked

Nursing 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.

$15K$68K$120K$0$50KNET PRICEUniversity ofQuinnipiac UniversityUniversity ofConnecticut StateFairfield University

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

University of Saint Jose…66%Quinnipiac University77%University of Connecticut84%Connecticut State Commun…21%Fairfield University84%Western Connecticut Stat…51%Southern Connecticut Sta…49%Sacred Heart University74%University of Connecticu…56%University of Connecticu…65%University of Hartford56%University of Bridgeport45%University of Connecticu…57%University of Connecticu…59%Central Connecticut Stat…49%Eastern Connecticut Stat…58%University of New Haven61%Mitchell College43%Albertus Magnus College49%Goodwin University58%

Top 3

#1

University of Saint Joseph

West Hartford, CT

Graduation66%
Earnings$59,908
Net Price$27,989

View full profile →
#2

Quinnipiac University

Hamden, CT

Graduation77%
Earnings$83,759
Net Price$40,675

View full profile →
#3

University of Connecticut

Storrs, CT

Graduation84%
Earnings$73,997
Net Price$25,097

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

#1

University of Saint Joseph

West Hartford, CT · 838 students · Private nonprofit

At the University of Saint Joseph, a smaller private nonprofit institution in West Hartford, students can expect a close-knit community with a focus on individualized attention. With an acceptance rate of 79%, this school welcomes a diverse student body, but the graduation rate stands at 66%, indicating room for improvement in supporting all students through to completion.
79% accepted 66% graduate $59,908 earnings
University's full profile
#2

Quinnipiac University

Hamden, CT · 6,531 students · Private nonprofit

Quinnipiac University in Hamden is known for its strong programs that lead to impressive job prospects, particularly in fields like health and business. Here, the graduation rate is 77%, which reflects a solid commitment to student success through robust academic and career support.
72% accepted 77% graduate $83,759 earnings
Quinnipiac's full profile
#3

University of Connecticut

Storrs, CT · 19,835 students · Public

With nearly 20,000 students, the University of Connecticut in Storrs provides a vibrant campus life coupled with strong academics. Notably, 84% of students graduate, which speaks to the supportive environment and resources available to them.
52% accepted 84% graduate $73,997 earnings
University's full profile
#4

Connecticut State Community College

New Britain, CT · 33,645 students · Public

Connecticut State Community College, located in New Britain, serves a large student body of over 33,000, making it a hub for diverse educational opportunities. However, the graduation rate is relatively low at just 21%, suggesting that many students may face challenges in completing their degrees.
21% graduate $41,344 earnings
Connecticut's full profile
#5

Fairfield University

Fairfield, CT · 5,373 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 84%, Fairfield University shows a strong commitment to student success. Located in Fairfield, CT, this private nonprofit institution helps students thrive, as evidenced by its impressive median earnings of $88,794 ten years after graduation. This suggests that a degree from Fairfield likely opens doors to rewarding career opportunities.
33% accepted 84% graduate $88,794 earnings
Fairfield's full profile
#6

Western Connecticut State University

Danbury, CT · 3,511 students · Public

Western Connecticut State University, a public institution in Danbury, CT, welcomes a diverse student body of 3,511 individuals. While the graduation rate stands at 51%, the university still offers a solid path for many students, with median earnings of $59,115 a decade after earning a degree, suggesting that graduates find their footing in the job market.
87% accepted 51% graduate $59,115 earnings
Western's full profile
#7

Southern Connecticut State University

New Haven, CT · 6,295 students · Public

Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven is a vibrant public school with an enrollment of 6,295 students. Though the graduation rate is lower at 49%, the university's median earnings of $55,043 ten years post-graduation suggest that many students still manage to find meaningful employment after college, albeit with some challenges.
91% accepted 49% graduate $55,043 earnings
Southern's full profile
#8

Sacred Heart University

Fairfield, CT · 7,087 students · Private nonprofit

Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT, is home to 7,087 students and has a graduation rate of 74%. With median earnings of $75,059 ten years after graduation, this private nonprofit institution equips students with skills that lead to successful careers. The supportive campus culture is designed to help students reach their academic and professional goals.
65% accepted 74% graduate $75,059 earnings
Sacred's full profile
#9

University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus

Waterbury, CT · 733 students · Public

With a welcoming community of 733 students, the University of Connecticut's Waterbury Campus emphasizes a personalized education experience. The campus' location in Waterbury, a city rich in history and culture, provides students with access to local resources and opportunities for engagement.
87% accepted 56% graduate $73,997 earnings
University's full profile
#10

University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus

Hartford, CT · 1,525 students · Public

Located in the capital city, the University of Connecticut's Hartford Campus serves 1,525 students and emphasizes a vibrant urban experience. The campus offers a mix of academic programs that cater to various interests, ensuring students find their niche in a supportive environment.
88% accepted 65% graduate $73,997 earnings
University's full profile
#11

University of Hartford

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

At the University of Hartford, students can pursue a range of programs within a vibrant campus community of around 4,100. With a 96% acceptance rate, this private nonprofit institution welcomes a diverse group of students seeking personalized attention and opportunities for growth.
96% accepted 56% graduate $60,823 earnings
University's full profile
#12

University of Bridgeport

Bridgeport, CT · 1,534 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Bridgeport, with its smaller campus of about 1,500 students, provides an intimate educational setting that caters to individual needs. The graduation rate here is lower at 45%, which may reflect challenges some students face, but the university is committed to helping its diverse student body succeed.
83% accepted 45% graduate $50,323 earnings
University's full profile
#13

University of Connecticut-Stamford

Stamford, CT · 2,432 students · Public

The University of Connecticut's Stamford Campus offers a unique urban experience, nestled in one of Connecticut's largest cities. With 2,432 enrolled students, it provides a blend of academic rigor and community connections, fostering both personal and professional growth.
83% accepted 57% graduate $73,997 earnings
University's full profile
#14

University of Connecticut-Avery Point

Groton, CT · 454 students · Public

At the University of Connecticut's Avery Point Campus in Groton, students find a close-knit community with just 454 peers. The campus is ideal for those seeking a more intimate educational experience, enhanced by its scenic waterfront location.
88% accepted 59% graduate $73,997 earnings
University's full profile
#15

Central Connecticut State University

New Britain, CT · 7,822 students · Public

With a student body of over 7,800, Central Connecticut State University in New Britain is a hub of diverse learning experiences. The school has a solid acceptance rate of 73%, making it accessible to many students looking for a public university experience in Connecticut.
73% accepted 49% graduate $58,562 earnings
Central's full profile
#16

Eastern Connecticut State University

Willimantic, CT · 3,418 students · Public

Eastern Connecticut State University, located in Willimantic, serves around 3,400 students and prides itself on fostering a close-knit community. With a graduation rate of 58%, it emphasizes student success and engagement, making it an appealing option for those who thrive in smaller environments.
83% accepted 58% graduate $56,469 earnings
Eastern's full profile
#17

University of New Haven

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

At the University of New Haven, students benefit from a vibrant campus that embraces a mix of academic rigor and practical experience. With a median earning of $60,126 a decade after graduation, this school has a solid track record of preparing students for successful careers in a variety of fields, from engineering to criminal justice.
60% accepted 61% graduate $60,126 earnings
University's full profile
#18

Mitchell College

New London, CT · 377 students · Private nonprofit

Mitchell College caters to students seeking a more personalized educational experience with small class sizes and a supportive atmosphere. Although the graduation rate is lower at 43%, the college emphasizes inclusivity and offers a pathway for students who may need additional support to succeed.
95% accepted 43% graduate $39,115 earnings
Mitchell's full profile
#19

Albertus Magnus College

New Haven, CT · 991 students · Private nonprofit

Albertus Magnus College offers a unique blend of liberal arts education and career preparation, making it an excellent option for students seeking a well-rounded college experience. Graduates earn a median income of $60,144 within ten years, reflecting the value of a degree from this institution in various professional fields.
59% accepted 49% graduate $60,144 earnings
Albertus's full profile
#20

Goodwin University

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

Goodwin University is known for its commitment to student-centered learning and strong community ties. The median earnings for graduates stand at $43,596 within ten years, which reflects the school's focus on practical skills and career pathways, particularly in healthcare and manufacturing sectors.
58% graduate $43,596 earnings
Goodwin's full profile

The data reveals an interesting pattern when comparing the University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus and the University of Connecticut-Stamford. Both schools report the same average earnings of $73,997, yet the Hartford campus has a graduation rate of 65%, while Stamford's is lower at 57%. This suggests that despite similar earning potential, Hartfort has a more successful completion rate, which can be a crucial factor for prospective students.

As you sift through these rankings, reflect on your personal priorities. Consider factors like location, the specific nursing program you want, and the campus environment. Financial constraints also play a critical role; the difference in net price can greatly affect your decision. Make sure to weigh these aspects alongside the data presented here.

Ultimately, the stakes are high. A decision about which nursing college to attend can shape not only your career but also your financial future. With average debt at $21,500 and varying graduation rates, families need to choose wisely. Each choice influences the trajectory toward a stable life after college, making this more than just an academic decision—it's a life decision.

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). →

DK

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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