Computer Science at CUNY Lehman College

At $13,317 in median debt—far below both the state average of $19,948 and national average of $23,374—Lehman College delivers one of the most affordable computer science degrees in New York. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.22 means graduates typically earn nearly five times their debt in their first year, which is exceptional for any bachelor's program. This matters significantly for a school where 61% of students receive Pell grants.

The tradeoff is clear in the earnings data. First-year graduates earn $59,516, placing them in the bottom quartile among both New York CS programs (25th percentile) and national programs (24th percentile). However, by year four, earnings jump to $82,796—a 39% increase that narrows the gap with higher-ranked programs. While this still trails the state median of $74,515, the trajectory is strong and the debt burden is minimal.

For families prioritizing affordability over starting salary, this represents a practical path into tech. The low debt load gives graduates flexibility to accept entry-level positions, pursue additional certifications, or relocate for better opportunities without financial pressure. The key risk is whether that first-year salary of $59,516 will be sufficient in the high-cost New York metro area, but the rapid earnings growth suggests graduates are gaining marketable skills that translate to better-paying roles relatively quickly.