Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at CUNY York College

York College graduates enter nursing with starting salaries that outperform 80% of New York's nursing programs and 95% of programs nationally—while carrying just $12,125 in debt compared to the $27,000 typical both statewide and nationally. That first-year median of $113,718 places York remarkably close to elite programs like NYU and specialty schools like Helene Fuld, despite York's 59% admission rate and substantial Pell Grant population.

The earnings dip to $101,249 by year four deserves attention, though this likely reflects career choices rather than program weakness—many nurses shift to less lucrative but preferred schedules or specialties after gaining experience. Even with this decline, graduates still earn more than the national median and maintain a debt burden representing just 11% of first-year income, making loan repayment straightforward.

For families concerned about nursing program costs, York delivers exceptional value. Your child would graduate with minimal debt and immediate earning power that rivals far more expensive private institutions. The moderate sample size means individual outcomes vary, but the fundamental value proposition—strong starting position with virtually no financial burden—makes this one of New York's best nursing investments.