Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services at CUNY Bronx Community College

CUNY Bronx Community College's dietetics program delivers something rare: exceptional national standing with minimal debt. At just $6,000 in student loans—a fraction of what most associate degree programs require—graduates enter the workforce with one of the lightest debt burdens in the country. While first-year earnings of $25,498 match the national median exactly, the program's real strength emerges by year four when earnings jump to $37,243, a 46% increase that outpaces typical career trajectories for associate-level nutrition programs.

The state picture adds nuance. Among New York's 11 dietetics programs, this ranks at the 60th percentile for earnings—solid but not spectacular given the higher cost of living in the metro area. However, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.24 means graduates owe less than three months' salary, allowing them to weather the lower starting wages while building credentials. For the 57% of students here on Pell grants, that minimal debt load matters enormously.

This program works best for students who understand they're starting a career ladder, not landing a high-paying job immediately. The earnings growth suggests graduates successfully move into better positions over time, likely as they gain certifications or transition into clinical roles. For families prioritizing affordability and access to healthcare careers, this represents a low-risk entry point with clear upward mobility.