Analysis
Fulton-Montgomery's information science program appears positioned near the middle of what peer programs typically deliver. Based on comparable two-year information science programs nationally, graduates can expect around $38,900 in first-year earnings against roughly $13,100 in debt—a manageable 0.34 ratio that suggests this credential pays for itself relatively quickly. That national benchmark actually exceeds the $35,100 median for similar New York programs, though it's worth noting that Hudson Valley Community College's information science graduates earn at the same level while Onondaga's cluster lower at $31,300.
The debt load estimated here sits slightly below the national median and comfortably above New York's lower state average of $10,200, suggesting Fulton-Montgomery operates in line with typical community college borrowing patterns. With 28% of students receiving Pell grants, the college serves a financially diverse population for whom keeping debt under $15,000 for career-focused training matters considerably. Information science associate degrees generally prepare students for technical support, database administration, and IT assistant roles that value hands-on skills over expensive credentials.
For families evaluating this path, the numbers suggest a practical investment if your student wants to enter the tech workforce quickly. The estimated debt represents roughly four months of typical earnings, allowing graduates to pay down loans while building experience. Just remember these figures reflect what similar programs produce nationally—not verified outcomes from Fulton-Montgomery specifically—so connecting with the college's career services about actual job placement would strengthen your decision.
Where Fulton-Montgomery Community College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all information science/studies associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in New York
Information Science/Studies associates's programs at peer institutions in New York (27 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $6,054 | $38,906* | — | $13,125* | — | |
| $6,694 | $38,906* | $54,608 | $8,942* | 0.23 | |
| $6,042 | $31,342* | — | $11,555* | 0.37 | |
| National Median | — | $38,906* | — | $13,300* | 0.34 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with information science/studies graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Web and Digital Interface Designers
Video Game Designers
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Computer Occupations, All Other
Web Administrators
Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians
Document Management Specialists
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Fulton-Montgomery Community College, approximately 28% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 11 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.