Degree Dividend
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Yale University vs Southern Connecticut State University: which has better ROI?

Private nonprofit, New Haven CT · vs · Public, New Haven CT

The verdict

Yale University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $95,108 in 1.8 years versus 12.5 years at Southern Connecticut State University, on median earnings of $100,533 vs $55,043 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)

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Head to head
MeasureYale UniversitySouthern Connecticut State University
Net price / yr$23,777$20,857
Total net cost$95,108$83,428
Median earnings, 10 yrs$100,533$55,043
Median debt$12,975$22,250
Payback1.8 yrs12.5 yrs
20-year net return$948,352$50,232

College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.

Yale University vs Southern Connecticut State University: frequently asked questions

Is Yale University or Southern Connecticut State University a better value?
Yale University. It clears its $95,108 net cost in about 1.8 years versus 12.5 years at Southern Connecticut State University, on median earnings of $100,533 vs $55,043 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Yale University or Southern Connecticut State University?
Southern Connecticut State University: $20,857/yr net price after aid versus $23,777/yr at Yale University — a difference of $2,920 a year, or about $11,680 over four years.
Do Yale University or Southern Connecticut State University graduates earn more?
Yale University graduates earn a median $100,533 ten years after entry, versus $55,043 at Southern Connecticut State University — a $45,490 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.