Southern Connecticut State University
Southern Connecticut State University is a public university in New Haven, CT ranked #1721 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of C, enrolling about 6,180 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 81.1%. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Computer and Information Sciences.
Day to day, students benefit from a 11:1 student-faculty ratio, 75.8% first-year retention, and 47.8% six-year graduation. Coaches and faculty advisors weave in frequent check-ins, helping students translate ambition into steady progress.
Families typically invest $20,877, about $3,879 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -45.6%, roughly 130.9 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $45,422. That's about $1,734 higher than national results. It's well-suited to students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is Southern Connecticut State University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Southern Connecticut State University graduates 47.8% of students within six years and keeps 75.8% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Southern Connecticut State University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $12,828 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,200 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $14,700 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $4,116 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $28,592 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 37.3% of Southern Connecticut State University students receive Pell Grants — in line with the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $18,568 to $26,783 depending on family income. Use Southern Connecticut State University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $23,340/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $26,783/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $45,422
- 10-Year Median Earnings $45,422
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $15,000
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 60.7%
- Employment Rate 12.8%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Southern Connecticut State University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Southern Connecticut State University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Southern Connecticut State University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Southern Connecticut State University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Southern Connecticut State University graduates earn $45,422 median, the -45.6% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading Not reported
- SAT Math Not reported
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite Not reported
- SAT & ACTNot required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 6,180
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 75.8%
- Graduation Rate 47.8%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 11:1
How to Get Into Southern Connecticut State University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Southern Connecticut State University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 81.1%, Southern Connecticut State University is relatively open. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: With a 81.1% acceptance rate, Southern Connecticut State University is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Southern Connecticut State University undergraduates. Business Administration, Management and Operations, Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General, and Psychology, General draw the most students.
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 14.9%
- Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General 11.0%
- Psychology, General 8.7%
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 7.6%
- Communication and Media Studies 4.0%
- Public Health 4.0%
See more majors
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods 3.9%
- Social Work 3.9%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $92,153
- 2. Computer and Information Sciences, General $78,251
- 3. Business Administration, Management and Operations $67,809
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Communication Disorders Sciences and Services $67,435
- 5. Biology, General $61,609
- 6. Public Health $57,386
- 7. Social Work $56,869
- 8. Special Education and Teaching $55,954
- 9. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas $52,973
- 10. Communication and Media Studies $52,303
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $113,436
- 2. Educational Administration and Supervision (Doctoral Degree) $106,714
- 3. Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degree) $95,128
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Educational Administration and Supervision (Graduate/Professional Certificate) $94,669
- 5. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $89,060
- 6. Public Health (Master's Degree) $73,555
- 7. Social Work (Master's Degree) $70,451
- 8. Communication Disorders Sciences and Services (Master's Degree) $68,110
- 9. Communication Disorders Sciences and Services (Graduate/Professional Certificate) $67,687
- 10. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas (Master's Degree) $66,245
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $92,153—76% more than Communication and Media Studies ($52,303). Graduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing programs lead with $113,436 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Southern Connecticut State University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degree, 252 graduates)
- Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General (Bachelor's Degree, 186 graduates)
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 147 graduates)
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degree, 128 graduates)
- Educational Administration and Supervision (Graduate/Professional Certificate, 69 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (40 programs)â–¼
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
- Psychology, General
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Public Health
- Communication and Media Studies
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Social Work
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Sociology
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- English Language and Literature, General
- Biology, General
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Special Education and Teaching
- Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management
- History
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Political Science and Government
- Chemistry
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Anthropology
- Physics
- Journalism
- Mathematics
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Geography and Cartography
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Music
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Economics
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Philosophy
- Library Science and Administration
- Biotechnology
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Education, General
- Data Science
Online Master's Degrees (33 programs)â–¼
- Special Education and Teaching
- Social Work
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Education, General
- Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management
- Public Health
- Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education
- Psychology, General
- Library Science and Administration
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Chemistry
- Political Science and Government
- Biology, General
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- English Language and Literature, General
- Sociology
- History
- Education, Other
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Physics
- Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
Online Doctoral Degrees (2 programs)â–¼
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (13 programs)â–¼
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Special Education and Teaching
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Accounting and Related Services
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Social and Philosophical Foundations of Education
- Library Science and Administration
- Bioethics/Medical Ethics
Online First Professional Degrees (1 program)â–¼
- Social Work
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 6,180
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 39.1%
- Female Students 60.9%
- Caucasian 43.6%
- Asian 4.0%
- Hispanic 24.6%
- Black 19.9%
- Pell Grant Recipients 37.3%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Southern Connecticut State University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Southern Connecticut State University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Southern Connecticut State University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Southern Connecticut State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Southern Connecticut State University has a diverse student body, with 43.6% identifying as White. Women make up 60.9% of undergraduates.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Southern Connecticut State University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Southern Connecticut State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Southern Connecticut State University serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #1721 nationally with ROI data not available, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.
At $20,877 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $45,422 median earnings. The 47.8% six-year graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 75.8% retention suggests adequate student support.
University Value: Southern Connecticut State University's Strengths
Ranked #1721 with a C grade, Southern Connecticut State University prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.
Primary Strengths: Universitys like Southern Connecticut State University excel at providing affordable education ($20,877 annually) with strong local employer relationships. Many programs emphasize practical skills and internships within the regional economy.
Best For: Students planning to work in the region after graduation benefit from established employer connections. Adult learners and part-time students appreciate flexible scheduling. First-generation students and budget-conscious families gain degrees without overwhelming debt.
Honest Assessment: Southern Connecticut State University's 75.8% retention and 47.8% six-year graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($45,422 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.
Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, Southern Connecticut State University and $20,877 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.
Key Takeaways
- 47.8% six-year graduation rate sits 14.7 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 75.8% first-year retention is 1.0 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
- -45.6% return on investment is 130.9 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $45,422 run about 4% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $20,877 is roughly $3,759 higher than the national median of $17,118.
Helpfulness for Students
- 11:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 75.8% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 12.8% employment rate within three years sits 55.4 points below national outcomes.
- Average net price of $20,877 is about $3,759 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 37.3% trails the national share by 1.6 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Southern Connecticut State University is a public university based in New Haven, CT and earns a C overall grade. It holds a #1721 national ranking Category results include Completion (B-), Support (B), Career Outcomes (D-), and Affordability (B).
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
About 75.8% of first-year students return, and roughly 47.8% finish within six years. Return on investment currently measures -45.6% for this program.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $20,877 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $28,592.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $7,715 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $15,000 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 37.3% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Median earnings come in near $45,422 six years after enrollment. That sits about 4% above the national median.
The three-year employment rate is close to 12.8%.
Plan around an ROI of about -45.6% according to the Scorecard data.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
81.1% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Southern Connecticut State University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Contact Information
- Address New Haven, CT 06515-1355
- Website www.southernct.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationNew England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)
- Endowment$32.3M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate29.6%