Information Science/Studies at CUNY Lehman College

CUNY Lehman College's Information Science program starts behind the pack but makes up considerable ground through strong earnings growth. While first-year earnings of $50,133 lag both the state median ($51,363) and national average ($58,651), graduates see a 34% salary increase by year four, reaching $67,295—competitive with SUNY schools and ranking in the 40th percentile among New York programs. This trajectory is particularly impressive given that 61% of Lehman students receive Pell grants, suggesting the program effectively launches first-generation and lower-income students into tech careers.

The financial fundamentals are exceptionally strong. At just $15,729, median debt is less than one-third the national average for this program and among the lowest 5% nationally. That 0.31 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates can realistically pay off their loans within a year or two of graduation, even at starting salaries. For a CUNY school serving the Bronx, this combination of low debt and solid mid-career earnings creates genuine economic mobility.

The tradeoff is clear: students accepting lower initial salaries in exchange for manageable debt and strong growth potential. If your child can weather that first year or two in entry-level positions, this program offers a financially responsible path into information science—particularly valuable for families where minimizing debt is the priority. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) suggests stable outcomes, though not at the scale of larger programs.