Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at CUNY New York City College of Technology

City Tech's Liberal Arts associate program starts graduates at just $18,360—landing in the bottom 5% nationally—but the trajectory tells a different story. By year four, earnings nearly double to $35,343, surpassing both the state median ($23,613) and national median ($27,248). This dramatic 93% growth suggests graduates are using the degree as intended: a stepping stone rather than a terminal credential.

The challenge is surviving that difficult first year. At $18,360, recent graduates earn barely above minimum wage in New York City, where cost of living is punishing. The $11,144 in debt is manageable by national standards, but represents over half a year's initial earnings. For students living at home or with substantial family support, this could work. For those needing to be fully self-sufficient immediately after graduation, that first year will be financially brutal.

The real question is whether your child plans to continue their education. This program ranks 25th percentile among New York associate programs—well below top community colleges like Hudson Valley ($28,464) or Westchester ($30,417)—but serves a predominantly working-class population (55% receive Pell grants). If the goal is transferring to a four-year program while keeping costs low, the low debt load matters more than the rocky start. If this is the final degree, prepare for a challenging transition period before earnings reach more sustainable levels.