Community Organization and Advocacy at Jefferson Community College

Jefferson Community College's Community Organization and Advocacy program starts graduates at $26,323—below both New York's median ($30,472) and the national average for this field. While the program ranks in the 40th percentile statewide, that still means more than half of New York programs produce stronger initial outcomes. The debt load of $13,805 is manageable at roughly half of first-year earnings, but earnings growth to $33,503 by year four, though solid at 27%, doesn't fully close the gap with stronger programs like CUNY Bronx ($39,102).

The concerning element here is that New York actually offers some of the better-performing programs in this field nationally, yet Jefferson sits in the bottom half statewide. Given that many community organization and advocacy roles are location-dependent, graduates may find themselves competing for positions with alumni from higher-earning programs in the state. The small sample size (under 30 graduates) adds uncertainty—these numbers could shift significantly with more data.

For families considering this program, the math works if your child plans to stay in the North Country region where Jefferson has established connections, but you should seriously evaluate whether CUNY or other downstate options might offer better career placement, even accounting for relocation. The debt won't be crushing, but the earning potential suggests this degree functions more as a stepping stone than a terminal credential.