Computer Programming at College of Staten Island CUNY

A debt-to-earnings ratio under 0.5 signals manageable financial risk, and this program—based on national benchmarks from 30 peer institutions—sits right at that threshold. With estimated first-year earnings of $38,086 and debt around $17,750, graduates would face monthly loan payments of roughly $200 on a standard repayment plan, which is feasible though hardly comfortable on an entry-level tech salary. For context, half the students at College of Staten Island receive Pell grants, so this middle-of-the-road outcome matters considerably for families already managing tight budgets.

What's less clear is whether this two-year credential positions graduates competitively in New York's tech market, where programming roles often cluster in higher-paying sectors. The national median suggests consistency across associate programs in this field—neither standout nor concerning—but Staten Island's proximity to Manhattan could work either for or against graduates depending on whether they secure city jobs or face fiercer competition from bachelor's-degree holders. Without reported outcomes specific to this campus, it's impossible to know if local employer relationships or program specifics shift these odds.

The practical question: Can your child translate this credential into sustainable work that justifies even modest debt? If they're using this as a stepping stone to further education or have clear employment connections in tech, the numbers work. If they're hoping the degree alone opens doors in a crowded market, comparable programs nationwide suggest you'll get middle-tier results at middle-tier cost.