If you’re researching “how to choose a master’s degree in Connecticut” or if you’re questioning “is a master’s degree worth it,” — rest assured, the Constitution State is a spectacular place to earn a graduate degree and enter an excellent career.

Taking a trip through Connecticut’s history to reflect on modern master’s degree merits, it’s important to note some of the scholastic components that make the southern New England state notorious.

Read on to discover:
• How Connecticut helped shape postsecondary education
• Why employment partnerships are pivotal for master’s degree graduates
• Examples of what graduate degree holders earn annually, and
• How flexible, forward-thinking academic programs advance the lives of adult learners

Connecticut’s Contribution to Higher Education

Throughout history, Connecticut has inspired higher education.

As published by the Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism, postsecondary institutions have been instilled in The Nutmeg State since the 18th century, including America’s first law school.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2021, 40.6% of Connecticut residents 25 years and older have a bachelor’s degree or higher, and, as stated by EducationData.org, 26.7% of Connecticut college graduates (11,400 alums) go on to earn master’s degrees or higher.

With master’s degrees in Connecticut in such demand, the northeastern district describes its academics as “next-generation learning for the next generation of leaders,” assuring a quality education as a proud pillar of the region.

Today, master’s programs in Connecticut are highly sought-after. The state is home to 38 colleges and universities and was reported by CT.gov as number four in the entire country for employees with advanced degrees.

Career Connections in Connecticut: Postsecondary Education & Employer Partnerships

Connecticut possesses an exceptional workforce with a passion for performance and productivity. Compared to the national average, Connecticut has nearly 50% more adults holding bachelor’s degrees or higher, along with some of the country’s highest attainment of master’s degrees.

An ideal location for industry, 14 of the nation’s Fortune 500 companies are headquartered in Connecticut, with key employers including prominent household names like Amazon, ESPN, LEGO, PEZ, and Travelers, among others.

To ensure students enter careers they love, innovative postsecondary institutions in Connecticut, like Goodwin University, form fundamental partnerships with hiring organizations. In addition, to align education, commerce, and community, industry leaders sit on Goodwin academic advisory boards and shape class curricula to best address real-world workplace needs and adequately prepare graduates for their future profession.

As an added area of opportunity, Goodwin University’s Career Services team of specialists introduces potential employers to talented master’s degree graduates.

The University’s College Central Network platform also allows graduate students and alums to connect with career opportunities in the area. The College Central Network has proved an effective tool for prospective employees enrolled at Goodwin and hiring partners. Employers can post internships, part-time positions, and full-time careers for Goodwin students free of charge. Through the program, organizations hiring Goodwin grads can review graduate student and alum résumés, find top-tier talent, and fill rewarding roles.

The Higher the Education, the Higher the Earning Potential

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, pursuing a graduate postsecondary education in America continues to pay off.

In 2021, employment projections reported that bachelor’s degree holders earned an average of $1,334 per week with a 3.5% unemployment rate.

The same year, master’s degree graduates produced an average of $1,574 weekly earnings with a 2.6% unemployment rate.

Conversely, the National Center for Educational Statistics confirmed that the median yearly earnings of 25 to 34-year-old full-time workers with a bachelor’s degree was $59,600. In contrast, graduates who obtained a master’s degree or higher made median yearly earnings of $69,700.

Pay Grade Per Graduate Program

The following information depicts examples of master’s degree programs offered by Goodwin University, prospective career outcomes, and plausible occupational earnings.

Goodwin Graduate Program: Master’s in Public Health

• Potential Profession: Epidemiologist
• Median Annual Salary: $78,830

Goodwin Graduate Program: Master of Education in Teacher Leadership

• Potential Profession: Elementary, Middle, or High School Principal
• Median Annual Salary: $98,420

Goodwin Graduate Program: Master’s in Organizational Leadership (MSOL)

• Potential Profession: Management
• Median Annual Salary: $102,450

Goodwin Graduate Program: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

• Potential Profession: Registered Nurse (RN)
• Median Annual Salary: The top 10% of RNs, on average, make $120,250

Goodwin Graduate Program(s): Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

• Potential Professions: Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN)/ Nurse Practitioners
• Median Annual Salary: $120,680

Accessible Programs for Advanced Professions

For adult learners and working students alike, accomplishing a graduate degree today is attainable. With flexible program formats, students can complete their classes on an accelerated, full-time, or part-time schedule.

Online, on-campus, and hybrid offerings also enable lifelong learners to continue working while fulfilling their professional goals.

Are you ready to master your next meaningful career? Propel your profession. Learn more about Goodwin’s graduate programs!