Computer and Information Sciences at Stony Brook University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Stony Brook delivers Ivy League-caliber outcomes at a fraction of the cost. With first-year earnings of $90,673 and debt under $17,000, this public university outearns 95% of computer science programs nationally—placing it ahead of most elite private schools while students graduate with roughly one-third the typical debt burden. Among New York's 68 computer science programs, Stony Brook ranks in the 80th percentile for earnings, trailing only Cornell, Barnard, and a handful of other elite institutions, yet its debt burden is 32% below the state median.
The earnings trajectory is equally impressive: graduates see 34% income growth by year four, reaching nearly $122,000. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.19 means students can realistically pay off loans in months rather than years. With a 49% admission rate and strong academic profile (1410 average SAT), this represents an accessible path to top-tier tech industry outcomes, particularly valuable for the 38% of students receiving Pell grants.
For families weighing expensive private alternatives, the comparison is stark. Stony Brook graduates earn within striking distance of Cornell and NYU alumni while carrying dramatically less debt. Unless you're choosing between this and an Ivy League acceptance, Stony Brook's computer science program is likely the smartest investment on your list.
Where Stony Brook University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Stony Brook University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Stony Brook University graduates earn $91k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all computer and information sciences bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in New York
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New York (68 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stony Brook University | $90,673 | $121,708 | $16,868 | 0.19 |
| Barnard College | $107,434 | — | $19,000 | 0.18 |
| Cornell University | $103,650 | $118,342 | $15,500 | 0.15 |
| New York University | $87,608 | $129,248 | $19,734 | 0.23 |
| Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute | $85,172 | — | $27,000 | 0.32 |
| Syracuse University | $82,378 | — | $27,000 | 0.33 |
| National Median | $61,322 | — | $25,000 | 0.41 |
Other Computer and Information Sciences Programs in New York
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across New York schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barnard College New York | $66,246 | $107,434 | $19,000 |
| Cornell University Ithaca | $66,014 | $103,650 | $15,500 |
| New York University New York | $60,438 | $87,608 | $19,734 |
| Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Troy | $61,884 | $85,172 | $27,000 |
| Syracuse University Syracuse | $63,061 | $82,378 | $27,000 |
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 Stony Brook University, approximately 38% 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 247 graduates with reported earnings and 202 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.