Analysis
Geneseo's economics program starts below the national median at $48,691, but by year four, graduates earn $74,334—showing impressive 53% growth that eventually surpasses most peer programs. However, the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these numbers may not reflect the typical graduate's experience, so consider them a directional indicator rather than hard evidence.
With $20,824 in debt and strong mid-career earnings, the financial math works reasonably well. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.43 is manageable, and graduates appear to land on solid career trajectories even if their starting salaries lag behind competitors. Among New York economics programs, Geneseo sits around the 40th percentile—not elite territory like Cornell or Barnard, but competitive with many state options at presumably lower tuition costs for in-state students.
The key question is whether this program delivers consistent outcomes or if the small sample captures a few particularly successful graduates. The strong earnings growth suggests real career momentum, but parents should recognize they're looking at limited data. If your child is considering Geneseo, try to connect with recent alumni directly to gauge whether these trajectories match their experience. For an affordable SUNY option, the risk-reward looks reasonable—but verify the pattern holds beyond this small cohort.
Where SUNY College at Geneseo Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all economics bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How SUNY College at Geneseo graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| SUNY College at Geneseo | $48,691 | $74,334 | +53% |
| Columbia University in the City of New York | $83,135 | $117,355 | +41% |
| Cornell University | $84,967 | $107,248 | +26% |
| Colgate University | $77,274 | $103,456 | +34% |
| Barnard College | $85,860 | $103,309 | +20% |
Compare to Similar Programs in New York
Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New York (74 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,966 | $48,691 | $74,334 | $20,824 | 0.43 | |
| $66,246 | $85,860 | $103,309 | $16,750 | 0.20 | |
| $66,014 | $84,967 | $107,248 | $15,500 | 0.18 | |
| $69,045 | $83,135 | $117,355 | $25,000 | 0.30 | |
| $67,805 | $79,845 | $81,561 | $19,000 | 0.24 | |
| $67,024 | $77,274 | $103,456 | $17,500 | 0.23 | |
| National Median | — | $51,722 | — | $22,816 | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with economics graduates
Economists
Environmental Economists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Statisticians
Biostatisticians
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists
Search Marketing Strategists
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Survey Researchers
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 College at Geneseo, approximately 25% 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 28 graduates with reported earnings and 26 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.