Business/Managerial Economics at CUNY Graduate School and University Center

A bachelor's in business economics is hitting a tough ceiling in New York. Based on comparable programs across the state, first-year earnings of around $41,000 are typical—nearly $12,000 below the national median for this degree. That gap matters because Manhattan economics graduates often compete directly with peers from programs nationwide, not just locally, and they're starting with a significant salary disadvantage.

The estimated $21,000 in debt sits right at state and national norms, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.50 that's manageable on paper. But context shifts the calculation: CUNY Baruch's business economics grads—just across town—earn $58,000 in their first year, nearly 41% more than what similar programs in New York typically produce. That earnings gulf suggests either market segmentation (different types of employers recruiting from different CUNY campuses) or credential prestige playing a real role in early career outcomes.

For families weighing this investment, the uncertainty cuts both ways. The Graduate Center might produce outcomes closer to Baruch's strong performance, or it might track with the state median used here. Without actual graduate data, you're essentially betting on which peer group better predicts this program's trajectory. Given the wide range among New York programs—from $23,000 to $58,000—pin down where this specific program's graduates actually land in the job market before committing.