Head-to-head · 2026
Central Connecticut State University vs University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus
Compare average net price ($16,857 at Central Connecticut State University; $10,875 at University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus), ROI score (8.69 vs 17.01), ten-year median earnings ($58,562 vs $73,997), and admissions selectivity (73.3% acceptance at Central Connecticut State University; 86.7% at University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus has a 5-2 metric-level edge. University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus has the stronger ROI signal here, though the final choice should still account for aid, major and campus fit.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric comparison
9 metrics, side by side. A colored cell marks a metric-level advantage. Green = lower-is-better, violet = higher-is-better.
| Metric | Central Connecticut State University | University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.69 | 17.01 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $16,857 | $10,875 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $58,562 | $73,997 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 73.3% ✓ | 86.7% |
| Graduation rate | 48.4% | 52.7% ✓ |
| Median debt | $22,300 | $21,500 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 7,822 | 733 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1080 ✓ | 1060 |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 5 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Central Connecticut State University costs $5,982 more per year than University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus ($16,857 vs $10,875). University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus graduates report $15,435 higher median earnings after ten years ($73,997 vs $58,562). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus ahead on projected ROI (17.01 vs 8.69, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Central Connecticut State University is accessible at 73.3% acceptance versus 86.7% (accessible) at University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus.
Frequently asked
Central Connecticut State University vs University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Central Connecticut State University or University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus the better value?
University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus has the higher EduGradify ROI score (17.01 vs 8.69), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus is cheaper — average net price $10,875 per year vs $16,857 at Central Connecticut State University. The annual difference of $5,982 adds up to about $23,928 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $73,997 vs $58,562 at Central Connecticut State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $15,435.
Which school is harder to get into?
Central Connecticut State University is more selective at 73.3% acceptance vs 86.7% at University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. Central Connecticut State University reports a B value grade; University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus reports A+.