Computer Software and Media Applications at Hunter Business School
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
Analysis
Hunter Business School's software certificate shows impressive national results—graduates earn $45,301, placing them in the 95th percentile compared to similar programs across the country. That's nearly $13,000 above what most certificate programs deliver. The $9,500 in debt is manageable at just 21% of first-year earnings, well below concerning thresholds. For a school serving predominantly low-income students (65% receive Pell grants), these outcomes suggest the program provides genuine economic mobility.
However, context matters here. Within New York, these numbers look less exceptional—the program sits at the 60th percentile for earnings statewide. That's still above average, but it indicates that other New York schools are achieving similar results. The program essentially delivers what's become standard for the state rather than outperforming local competitors.
The real limitation is data quality. With fewer than 30 graduates in the sample, these numbers could shift significantly with just a few outliers. A single graduate landing a high-paying tech job or several struggling to find work could dramatically alter the picture. For an anxious parent, this means the program shows promise—low debt and solid earnings potential—but you're making a decision with limited evidence about consistency. If your child has other certificate options with more robust track records, those might offer more certainty about what to expect.
Where Hunter Business School Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer software and media applications certificate's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Hunter Business School graduates compare to all programs nationally
Hunter Business School graduates earn $45k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all computer software and media applications certificate programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in New York
Computer Software and Media Applications certificate's programs at peer institutions in New York (19 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hunter Business School | $45,301 | — | $9,500 | 0.21 |
| National Median | $32,672 | — | $10,180 | 0.31 |
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 Hunter Business School, approximately 65% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 24 graduates with reported earnings and 27 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.