Analysis
In New York's competitive marketing landscape, comparable associate-level programs show a stark earnings range—from just under $20,000 to nearly $27,000 first-year—making Kingsborough's estimated $41,955 figure worth scrutinizing. This estimate draws from national peer programs rather than actual Kingsborough outcomes, and it sits nearly double the typical New York median of $22,966. If Kingsborough's graduates actually matched that national benchmark, the program would be exceptional for the state. But if outcomes align more closely with other CUNY and New York community colleges, that picture changes considerably.
The estimated $15,597 in debt appears manageable on paper—lower than both state and national medians—which reflects well on Kingsborough's community college pricing. However, the earnings uncertainty matters more here than the debt estimate. At the lower end suggested by New York state data, monthly loan payments could consume a much larger share of take-home pay than the 0.37 debt-to-earnings ratio implies. With 29% of students receiving Pell grants, many families are counting on this program to deliver genuine economic mobility.
The bottom line: until actual graduate outcomes become available, you're making this decision somewhat blind. The national estimate suggests strong returns, but nearby programs with real data tell a more modest story. If your student is debt-averse and considering this path, prioritize building connections and securing internships during the program—those practical experiences may matter more than the credential itself in determining where they land in that wide New York earnings range.
Where CUNY Kingsborough Community College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in New York
Marketing associates's programs at peer institutions in New York (20 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $5,252 | $41,955* | — | $15,597* | — | |
| $7,332 | $26,930* | $37,231 | —* | — | |
| $6,330 | $19,002* | $46,526 | $10,953* | 0.58 | |
| National Median | — | $41,955* | — | $19,149* | 0.46 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with marketing graduates
Advertising and Promotions Managers
Marketing Managers
Sales Managers
Fundraising Managers
Web and Digital Interface Designers
Video Game Designers
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists
Search Marketing Strategists
Fundraisers
Survey Researchers
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 Kingsborough Community College, approximately 29% 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 18 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.