Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at St. John's University-New York

St. John's IT management program sits in an odd position: while it underperforms the national median by $9,000, it's exactly at the state median for New York—meaning it's a middle-of-the-pack choice among in-state options. The $22,372 debt load is reasonable, creating a manageable 0.46 debt-to-earnings ratio that should allow graduates to pay off loans without financial strain. However, the first-year salary of $49,090 is notably modest for a technology-focused degree, especially in the New York metro area where tech salaries typically run higher.

The program's real challenge becomes clear when comparing it to other NY schools. Rochester Institute of Technology graduates earn nearly double ($89,032), while even nearby options like SUNY Polytechnic ($52,079) and Pace ($50,885) deliver better outcomes. For families paying private tuition at St. John's, this presents a value question: you're getting typical New York results at what's likely a premium price point compared to SUNY alternatives.

If your child is admitted to St. John's and prefers a private university experience in Queens, the debt load won't be crushing. But encourage them to also apply to programs like RIT or SUNY Polytechnic, where the same degree type shows significantly stronger earning potential. The difference of $3,000-$40,000 in starting salary compounds substantially over a career.