Computer Science at CUNY Hunter College

Hunter College delivers exceptional value in computer science, combining low debt with strong earnings growth. At just $8,250 in median debt—a fraction of the $19,948 state median—graduates start at $76,747 and climb to $106,141 within four years. That 38% earnings jump is particularly notable in New York's competitive tech market, where this CUNY campus punches well above its weight despite a modest admission profile.

While first-year earnings place Hunter in the 60th percentile among New York programs, the four-year figure tells a more impressive story. The program sits behind only the state's elite privates (Cornell, Columbia, RPI), yet costs dramatically less. For families weighing a $200,000+ private school education against Hunter's in-state tuition, this debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.11 makes the financial calculus straightforward. Over half the student body receives Pell grants, suggesting the program successfully launches students from diverse economic backgrounds into tech careers.

The key advantage here isn't just the low debt—it's the career trajectory. Graduates who land that first tech job see meaningful salary progression, likely reflecting strong employer recognition of the program within the New York metro area. For families seeking a Computer Science degree without the private school price tag, Hunter represents one of New York's clearest bargains in tech education.