Physical Sciences at CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College

CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College's Physical Sciences associate degree starts modestly but shows something many two-year programs don't: meaningful income growth. While first-year earnings of $26,948 are exactly at the national median, graduates see their income jump 25% to nearly $34,000 by year four—a trajectory that suggests this program successfully positions students for advancement or bachelor's degree completion. Among New York's physical sciences programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile, outperforming the state median by nearly $1,900 annually.

The $9,000 in typical debt makes the program accessible, especially for Borough of Manhattan's predominantly working-class student body (57% receive Pell grants). That debt load translates to monthly payments around $100—manageable even at the starting salary. The real value here isn't the entry-level wage but the momentum: graduates who earn $34,000 four years out are positioned either to continue climbing in technical roles or to leverage their associate degree into a four-year program with stronger earning potential.

For families seeking an affordable entry point into STEM fields, this program delivers reasonable value. The modest debt and steady income growth make it a practical stepping stone, particularly for students who need to work while studying or aren't ready to commit to a four-year program immediately.