Economics at SUNY Buffalo State University

Buffalo State's economics program shows a concerning gap between what graduates earn and what the state's stronger programs deliver. Starting at $41,547, first-year earnings trail both the New York median ($50,058) and the national benchmark ($51,722) by roughly $10,000—placing this program in the bottom quarter of economics offerings statewide. While the $26,000 debt load is reasonable and manageable at 0.63 times first-year income, the real question is whether the degree opens doors to the higher-paying careers economics majors typically pursue.

The 35% earnings jump to $56,086 by year four offers some reassurance—graduates do see meaningful salary growth that eventually approaches competitive levels. However, this still lags behind what students earn right out of the gate at stronger New York programs. Given that over half of Buffalo State students receive Pell grants, many families are looking at economics as a path to financial mobility, and these numbers suggest the program may not deliver the premium parents expect from an economics degree.

For families considering this program, the calculation depends heavily on alternatives. At Buffalo State's in-state tuition rate and with manageable debt, this could work for students who need an affordable path to a business-adjacent degree and are willing to grind through lower early earnings. But students who can access SUNY's more competitive campuses or afford private alternatives should strongly consider them—the earnings difference compounds significantly over a career.