Analysis
Siena's finance graduates start modestly but see their earnings jump 48% within four yearsβa growth trajectory that outpaces most programs nationally. While the $54,056 starting salary sits near the national median, that $79,779 four-year mark puts graduates well ahead of the curve and suggests strong career momentum once they're established in the field.
The real advantage here shows up in the debt numbers. At $27,000, graduates carry significantly less debt than peers at comparable programs, ranking in just the 5th percentile nationally for debt burden. That 0.50 debt-to-earnings ratio is exceptionally manageable, meaning most graduates can realistically pay off their loans within a few years while still building savings. Among New York finance programs, Siena ranks in the 60th percentile for earningsβsolidly middle-of-the-pack for the state, though notably behind powerhouses like Fordham or Binghamton.
For families concerned about post-graduation financial stress, Siena offers a practical path: reasonable debt combined with steady career growth. You're not getting Wall Street starting salaries, but you're also not taking on Wall Street-level debt. The strong four-year earnings suggest that Siena's network and preparation translate into real career advancement, making this a financially sound choice for students who want to enter finance without starting their careers underwater.
Where Siena College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all finance and financial management services bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Siena 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Siena College | $54,056 | $79,779 | +48% |
| Fordham University | $83,789 | $112,777 | +35% |
| Binghamton University | $73,598 | $94,174 | +28% |
| Syracuse University | $72,819 | $91,086 | +25% |
| Rochester Institute of Technology | $56,513 | $86,145 | +52% |
Compare to Similar Programs in New York
Finance and Financial Management Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New York (47 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $44,405 | $54,056 | $79,779 | $27,000 | 0.50 | |
| $61,992 | $83,789 | $112,777 | $26,850 | 0.32 | |
| $10,363 | $73,598 | $94,174 | $15,000 | 0.20 | |
| $63,061 | $72,819 | $91,086 | $27,000 | 0.37 | |
| $51,424 | $61,246 | $81,127 | $26,000 | 0.42 | |
| $57,016 | $56,513 | $86,145 | $23,250 | 0.41 | |
| National Median | β | $53,590 | β | $23,332 | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with finance and financial management services graduates
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Chief Executives
Chief Sustainability Officers
General and Operations Managers
Personal Financial Advisors
Financial and Investment Analysts
Financial Risk Specialists
Budget Analysts
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Insurance Underwriters
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 Siena College, approximately 23% 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 79 graduates with reported earnings and 81 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.