Est. Earnings (1yr)
$77,952
Est. from NY median (18 programs)
Est. Median Debt
$25,125
Est. from NY median (7 programs)

Analysis

Engineering remains one of the most reliable paths to employment after college, and SUNY Oswego's electrical engineering program appears positioned right in the competitive middle of the field. Based on comparable programs across New York, first-year earnings around $78,000 suggest graduates land solid entry-level engineering roles, though they're trailing the state's elite programs by $20,000 or more. Cornell and RPI graduates command significantly higher starting salaries, likely reflecting both institutional prestige and stronger industry pipelines.

The estimated $25,000 in debt produces a manageable 0.32 debt-to-earnings ratioβ€”well below the threshold where loan payments become burdensome. Similar programs in New York typically produce graduates who can comfortably handle their monthly obligations while still saving and covering living expenses. That's a meaningful advantage over many bachelor's degree programs, where debt loads can equal or exceed first-year earnings.

Without program-specific outcomes data, you're operating somewhat blind on how SUNY Oswego's graduates specifically fare. The 80% admission rate and 39% Pell Grant enrollment suggest a more accessible institution than the comparison schools, which could translate to either excellent value or weaker outcomes depending on factors like faculty quality, lab facilities, and employer relationships. For families seeking an affordable engineering degree in New York's state system, the estimated figures point to reasonable value, but confirm internship placement rates and job outcomes directly with the department before committing.

Where State University of New York at Oswego Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all electrical, electronics and communications engineering bachelors's programs nationally

Compare to Similar Programs in New York

Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New York (27 total in state)

Scroll to see more β†’

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)*Earnings (4yr)Median Debt*Debt/Earnings
State University of New York at OswegoOswego$8,769$77,952*β€”$25,125*β€”
Cornell UniversityIthaca$66,014$100,516*$118,743$14,750*0.15
Syracuse UniversitySyracuse$63,061$84,494*β€”β€”*β€”
Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York$69,045$84,019*$96,554$12,000*0.14
University of RochesterRochester$64,348$83,705*$103,652$18,750*0.22
Rensselaer Polytechnic InstituteTroy$61,884$83,412*$102,236$24,625*0.30
National Medianβ€”$77,710*β€”$24,989*0.32
* Estimated from similar programs

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with electrical, electronics and communications engineering graduates

Architectural and Engineering Managers

Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as architecture and engineering or research and development in these fields.

$167,740/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers

Define, plan, or execute biofuels/biodiesel research programs that evaluate alternative feedstock and process technologies with near-term commercial potential.

$167,740/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Computer Hardware Engineers

Research, design, develop, or test computer or computer-related equipment for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use. May supervise the manufacturing and installation of computer or computer-related equipment and components.

$155,020/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Aerospace Engineers

Perform engineering duties in designing, constructing, and testing aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft. May conduct basic and applied research to evaluate adaptability of materials and equipment to aircraft design and manufacture. May recommend improvements in testing equipment and techniques.

$134,830/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Electrical Engineers

Research, design, develop, test, or supervise the manufacturing and installation of electrical equipment, components, or systems for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use.

$118,780/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Electronics Engineers, Except Computer

Research, design, develop, or test electronic components and systems for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use employing knowledge of electronic theory and materials properties. Design electronic circuits and components for use in fields such as telecommunications, aerospace guidance and propulsion control, acoustics, or instruments and controls.

$118,780/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Radio Frequency Identification Device Specialists

Design and implement radio frequency identification device (RFID) systems used to track shipments or goods.

$118,780/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses pertaining to the application of physical laws and principles of engineering for the development of machines, materials, instruments, processes, and services. Includes teachers of subjects such as chemical, civil, electrical, industrial, mechanical, mineral, and petroleum engineering. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

$83,980/yrJobs growth:

Engineers, All Other

All engineers not listed separately.

Energy Engineers, Except Wind and Solar

Design, develop, or evaluate energy-related projects or programs to reduce energy costs or improve energy efficiency during the designing, building, or remodeling stages of construction. May specialize in electrical systems; heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems; green buildings; lighting; air quality; or energy procurement.

Mechatronics Engineers

Research, design, develop, or test automation, intelligent systems, smart devices, or industrial systems control.

Microsystems Engineers

Research, design, develop, or test microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices.

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 State University of New York at Oswego, approximately 39% 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.

Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 18 similar programs in NY. Actual outcomes may vary.