General Sales, Merchandising at State University of New York at Plattsburgh

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44 suggests manageable borrowing, but the earnings trajectory here raises questions. Based on comparable sales and merchandising programs nationally, first-year earnings around $53,400 appear solid—notably above the $43,900 median for New York programs. However, by year four, graduates are earning less than they did fresh out of college. This backward slide is unusual and warrants attention, particularly when top New York programs like RIT and Baruch show first-year figures in the low-to-mid $40,000s that presumably grow over time.

The estimated $23,500 debt figure, derived from similar SUNY institutions, sits below the national median and would take roughly half a year's starting salary to repay under standard terms. That's reasonable leverage if the initial earnings hold steady. But that year-four dip to $48,800 suggests either job-hopping without advancement, regional market constraints in upstate New York, or graduates shifting to lower-paying roles after gaining experience. Sales careers typically reward experience with higher commissions and better territories, making this pattern puzzling.

Given these estimates from peer programs, the financial picture depends heavily on landing in the right sales environment early and staying there. If your child thrives in commission-based work and can access markets beyond the North Country, this program offers affordable entry. If they're uncertain about sales or prefer salary stability, the backward earnings trend—even if it's just an artifact of small sample estimation—signals caution about this particular career path.