Analysis
Based on comparable programs nationally, an associate's in Computer Science at Bronx Community College appears positioned near the national median, with estimated first-year earnings around $39,000 and debt of roughly $10,000. That debt level—about three months of gross pay—represents manageable risk, especially for a program serving a predominantly Pell-eligible student body where affordability matters most. However, it's worth noting that similar programs in New York typically produce significantly lower earnings (closer to $25,000), so these national-based estimates may be optimistic for the local market.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.26 suggests a workable financial picture if the national earnings estimate holds. But the wide gap between national and state benchmarks—$39,000 versus $25,000—creates real uncertainty about what graduates actually earn. Computer Science credentials can vary dramatically in value depending on whether graduates move into tech roles, helpdesk positions, or continue to a bachelor's degree. For students planning to transfer to complete a four-year degree, this could be a sensible stepping stone; for those entering the workforce directly, the actual earnings outcome remains unclear.
Given the data limitations, parents should investigate where recent graduates actually land: Are they transferring to CUNY senior colleges, working in Manhattan tech firms, or struggling in lower-wage support roles? The estimated numbers suggest reasonable value, but without confirmed outcomes from this specific program, you're relying on comparisons that may not reflect Bronx Community College's actual track record.
Where CUNY Bronx Community College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer science associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in New York
Computer Science associates's programs at peer institutions in New York (32 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $5,206 | $39,118* | — | $10,121* | — | |
| $5,218 | $24,888* | $46,054 | $8,750* | 0.35 | |
| National Median | — | $39,118* | — | $12,458* | 0.32 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer science graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Information Security Analysts
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Computer Programmers
Web Developers
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At CUNY Bronx Community College, approximately 57% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 6 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.