Analysis
Based on comparable social sciences programs across New York, SUNY Brockport's graduates likely start around $35,800—squarely in the middle of what these degrees typically produce statewide. With estimated debt of $22,100, the 0.62 debt-to-earnings ratio falls comfortably below the concerning 1.0 threshold, suggesting manageable monthly payments for most graduates. While the earnings lag well behind specialized programs like CUNY's Graduate Center ($54,265), they align closely with what NYU and University of Rochester graduates report, which speaks to the regional reality of social sciences bachelor's degrees rather than any particular weakness at Brockport.
The challenge here isn't the debt load—it's modest for a four-year degree—but rather the career trajectory these programs typically offer. Social sciences graduates often need additional credentials or pivot into adjacent fields to see meaningful salary growth. The $35,800 starting point puts your child above the poverty line but likely still dependent on roommates or family support in most New York markets. The debt is serviceable, but only if employment comes quickly after graduation.
Given Brockport's 71% admission rate and significant Pell population, this represents a relatively accessible path to a bachelor's degree with below-average debt. If your child has clear graduate school plans or a specific career pathway in mind, the numbers work. If they're still figuring things out, know that the estimated earnings reflect a degree that opens doors but rarely launches careers on its own.
Where SUNY Brockport Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all social sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in New York
Social Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New York (25 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,678 | $35,772* | — | $22,116* | — | |
| $7,410 | $54,265* | — | $12,500* | 0.23 | |
| $8,379 | $40,537* | $51,171 | $19,500* | 0.48 | |
| $7,470 | $37,919* | $49,676 | —* | — | |
| $64,348 | $37,491* | $61,172 | $21,366* | 0.57 | |
| $60,438 | $35,772* | — | $20,188* | 0.56 | |
| National Median | — | $36,279* | — | $25,500* | 0.70 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with social sciences graduates
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 SUNY Brockport, 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 9 similar programs in NY. Actual outcomes may vary.