Business/Commerce at Empire State University

Empire State University's business associate program shows remarkably strong first-year earnings at $62,409—more than double both New York's median ($30,059) and the national average ($36,591), placing it in the 95th percentile nationwide and statewide. The modest $12,500 debt load means graduates owe just 20 cents for every dollar they earn initially, making this appear to be an exceptional value. However, the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could shift significantly with more data.

The major red flag is the sharp earnings decline to $44,964 by year four—a 28% drop that's highly unusual for any program. This pattern suggests graduates may be taking high-paying but unsustainable positions, or the data may be capturing a specific cohort affected by unusual circumstances. While even the four-year earnings still exceed state and national benchmarks, the downward trajectory is concerning and warrants explanation.

For parents considering this program, the initial outcomes look outstanding, but the small sample and unusual earnings pattern mean you're working with limited information. If your child can verify that recent graduates are finding stable career paths (not just strong starting positions), the low debt and strong initial earnings make this worth serious consideration. Just don't assume the first-year number tells the whole story.