Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services at CUNY Lehman College

CUNY Lehman College's dietetics program stands out for one reason: remarkably low debt combined with solid income growth. That $12,000 median debt is less than half the state average and puts graduates in the 95th percentile nationally for affordability—meaning only 5% of dietetics programs nationwide leave students with less debt. For families worried about borrowing, this is exceptional.

The earnings picture requires patience. First-year graduates earn $35,000, which trails other New York programs by about $2,000 and places Lehman in the 40th percentile statewide. However, by year four, median earnings jump 43% to nearly $50,000, surpassing programs at CUNY Queens and Brooklyn that initially pay more. This pattern reflects how dietetics careers typically work: entry-level positions pay modestly, but credentialed dietitians (who often need supervised practice hours and RD certification) see meaningful salary increases.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.34 means graduates owe roughly four months of their starting salary—an unusually manageable burden that gives them financial flexibility during those lower-earning early career years. Given that 61% of Lehman students receive Pell grants, this accessibility matters. If your child is serious about becoming a registered dietitian and committed to the supervised practice requirements, Lehman delivers the degree with minimal financial risk while positioning graduates for competitive mid-career earnings.