Analysis
Russell Sage College's business management program produces graduates earning $37,953 in their first year—significantly below both New York's median ($42,268) and the national average ($45,703). While this ranks in the 40th percentile statewide, it places in just the 17th percentile nationally, meaning 83% of similar programs across the country deliver better first-year outcomes. The gap is stark when compared to top NY programs like Manhattan University ($113,777) or even mid-tier options like Syracuse ($65,009).
The program does show decent earnings growth—20% over four years—bringing graduates to $45,500. However, starting from such a low baseline means even this improvement barely reaches what graduates from stronger programs earn immediately. With $27,000 in debt, the immediate financial pressure is real: new graduates face a debt burden representing 71% of their first year's salary, making loan repayment challenging on entry-level wages.
For families considering this program, the value proposition is weak compared to alternatives within New York. Unless there are compelling personal circumstances—like location constraints or specific institutional fit—exploring other SUNY or private options that deliver stronger earnings outcomes would likely yield better returns on a similar tuition investment. The numbers suggest this program struggles to launch graduates into well-paying business roles.
Where Russell Sage College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Russell Sage College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Russell Sage College | $37,953 | $45,500 | +20% |
| Manhattan University | $113,777 | $104,296 | -8% |
| Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute | $47,925 | $82,861 | +73% |
| Marist University | $53,766 | $78,615 | +46% |
| Fordham University | $58,341 | $78,039 | +34% |
Compare to Similar Programs in New York
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New York (94 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $36,756 | $37,953 | $45,500 | $27,000 | 0.71 | |
| $50,850 | $113,777 | $104,296 | $25,328 | 0.22 | |
| — | $70,191 | — | $14,737 | 0.21 | |
| $57,950 | $65,887 | $76,141 | $24,757 | 0.38 | |
| $63,061 | $65,009 | $71,365 | $27,000 | 0.42 | |
| $49,900 | $61,312 | $65,800 | $22,000 | 0.36 | |
| National Median | — | $45,703 | — | $26,000 | 0.57 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business administration, management and operations graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Compensation and Benefits Managers
Human Resources Managers
Sales Managers
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 Russell Sage College, approximately 43% 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 39 graduates with reported earnings and 49 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.