Homeland Security at Roberts Wesleyan University

Roberts Wesleyan's Homeland Security program produces graduates earning $27,387 one year after completing their degree—barely above half the national median of $48,676 and significantly below New York's state median of $43,612. Even accounting for the small sample size (under 30 graduates), these outcomes rank in the bottom 10% both nationally and statewide. For comparison, Utica University's graduates in the same field earn more than double at $57,215, while even SUNY Canton delivers $48,753.

The nearly 1:1 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates typically owe as much as they'll earn in their entire first year—a concerning starting point for loan repayment. At $27,000 first-year salary, the standard federal loan payment would consume roughly 18% of pre-tax income. While the debt load itself isn't unusually high (25th percentile nationally), it's the mismatch with earnings that creates financial strain.

The small cohort size warrants caution—one or two students pursuing graduate school or facing unusual circumstances could skew these numbers. However, if you're considering this program, you should demand clear answers about career placement and why outcomes lag so far behind comparable New York programs. At minimum, explore the higher-performing alternatives within the state system where in-state tuition would offer better value alongside stronger earning potential.