Social Sciences at Mercy University

Mercy University's Social Sciences program performs better relative to New York peers than you might expect—landing at the 60th percentile statewide, above the state median of $35,607. With graduates earning $36,726 initially and carrying $26,978 in debt, the program offers a more manageable financial picture than many competing options, particularly given that 47% of students receive Pell grants. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.73 means graduates owe roughly nine months' salary, which is reasonable for a bachelor's degree.

The significant concern here is stagnation: earnings essentially flatline between year one and year four at around $36,500. Most graduates see income growth during those crucial early career years, but this cohort shows none. Whether this reflects limited career advancement in the social sciences field broadly, or graduates struggling to find professional roles that utilize their degree, the pattern suggests you'll need to think carefully about graduate school or additional credentials to boost earning potential beyond the entry level.

For an accessible New York school serving a substantial number of lower-income students, Mercy delivers middle-of-the-pack outcomes at a manageable debt level. Just recognize that your child will likely start near where they'll be in year four—unless they pursue further education or pivot into a specific career track with clearer advancement potential.