Physics at CUNY New York City College of Technology

Based on comparable physics programs across New York, this CUNY program appears to deliver median outcomes at below-median cost. Similar bachelor's programs in the state suggest first-year earnings around $48,600 against roughly $19,800 in debt—a ratio of 0.41 that's quite manageable. That's actually lower debt than the state median of $20,270 for physics programs, while matching the typical earnings. For a school serving 55% Pell-eligible students, this represents solid value in a field where CUNY graduates historically compete well with more selective institutions.

The estimated earnings sit squarely in line with what physics majors earn nationally ($47,670 median) and match programs at schools like CUNY City College and Rochester Institute of Technology. Only Rensselaer grads, at an elite engineering-focused private school, command substantially higher starting salaries. What matters more here is the debt picture: borrowing under $20,000 for a degree that typically leads to nearly $49,000 in first-year earnings creates breathing room for graduates entering careers in research, engineering, or technical fields.

The clear limitation is that these figures come from peer programs rather than this school's actual graduates, so individual outcomes could vary. Still, the fundamentals—reasonable debt, earnings consistent with the field, and CUNY's track record in STEM—suggest this program offers a practical path into physics without the financial burden common at many four-year institutions.