Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions at CUNY Hostos Community College

Hostos Community College graduates in mental health services start earning $38,336—roughly $5,000 above the state median and solidly in the top 20% nationally. The $9,000 median debt is remarkably low, less than half the national average for this field and among the lowest debt loads in the country. For a Bronx-based program where nearly two-thirds of students receive Pell grants, this combination of strong starting earnings and minimal debt is noteworthy.

The concerning detail is the earnings trajectory: graduates actually earn slightly less four years out than in their first year. This backward slide suggests many land in roles with limited advancement opportunities or may be working while pursuing further education. Still, even with flat career progression, that debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.23 means graduates can realistically pay off their loans within a year or two of focused repayment.

The small sample size matters here—with fewer than 30 graduates tracked, a few outliers could skew these numbers significantly. But if this data holds, you're looking at an affordable entry point into social services work with minimal financial risk. Just understand the career ceiling appears low without additional credentials.