Finance and Financial Management Services at State University of New York at Plattsburgh

The small sample size here demands caution, but the earnings trajectory tells an unusual story: graduates start well below their peers—earning $13,000 less than the typical New York finance grad in year one—but then surge to $72,486 by year four. That 79% growth rate suggests either delayed career launches or graduates who take time to break into better positions. Among New York's 47 finance programs, this ranks only at the 25th percentile, meaning three-quarters of state programs show stronger starting outcomes.

The $27,000 debt load sits slightly above both state and national medians, but remains manageable given the four-year earnings. Still, that first year represents a financial squeeze: earning $40,414 while carrying this debt means tight budgeting compared to graduates from Binghamton or Syracuse who start $30,000+ higher. The 0.67 debt-to-earnings ratio isn't alarming, but it reflects that difficult first-year reality.

The core question is whether your student can navigate those lean early years and whether the eventual $72,000 salary justifies starting so far behind peers. If they're debt-averse or need immediate earning power, stronger programs exist in-state. But if they can weather a slower start—perhaps through family support or additional internships—the four-year number approaches respectability for a SUNY price point.