Computer Science at Marist University

Marist's Computer Science program starts modestly but shows exceptional momentum, with graduates nearly doubling their earnings by year four. That 47% salary growth substantially outpaces typical tech career trajectories and suggests strong alumni networks or curriculum alignment with high-demand specializations. The first-year median of $69,737 sits slightly below state and national averages, but by year four, graduates reach $102,815—comparable to graduates from RPI and University of Rochester.

The debt picture here works in students' favor. At roughly $26,000, it's manageable relative to first-year earnings (0.37 ratio) and competitive with national norms, though notably higher than New York's median. Within the state's CS landscape, Marist ranks in the 40th percentile for early earnings, but that ranking doesn't capture the program's upward trajectory. You're paying less than elite institutions while potentially reaching similar mid-career outcomes.

For families weighing this against SUNY alternatives or peer private schools, Marist offers a clear trade: accept a slower start in exchange for strong four-year outcomes and reasonable debt. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) provides decent confidence in these numbers. If your child can secure merit aid to close the debt gap with public universities, this becomes particularly compelling.