International Business at Farmingdale State College

Farmingdale's International Business program sits at a crossroads that should prompt careful consideration. First-year earnings of $44,903 fall short of both the state median ($48,596) and national median ($49,890) for this major, landing graduates in the 40th percentile statewide—meaning most International Business graduates across New York's 29 programs are earning more. While debt appears manageable at an estimated $21,500 based on comparable programs at similar colleges, that 0.48 debt-to-earnings ratio only looks reasonable if your student can live at home initially or has family support to manage those early years.

The competition within New York tells an uncomfortable story. Top programs like Fordham ($65,131) and Pace ($61,228) produce graduates earning 45-50% more right out of the gate, though these come with higher price tags and selectivity. Even CUNY Baruch—a public option like Farmingdale—shows graduates earning $52,290, nearly $7,400 more annually. That gap compounds quickly over a career. The question becomes whether Farmingdale's accessibility (69% admission rate, lower estimated debt) justifies accepting below-median outcomes in a field where starting salary significantly impacts career trajectory.

If your child has admission offers from stronger programs in the state and can manage slightly higher debt, those investments likely pay off faster. If Farmingdale is the affordable path forward, understand they'll need to be aggressive about internships and networking to overcome that starting salary gap.