Business Administration, Management and Operations at SUNY Corning Community College

SUNY Corning's Business Administration associate's program hits above its weight within New York—ranking in the 60th percentile statewide—even as it falls below the national median. First-year graduates earn $30,674, which trails the national average by about $3,300 but exceeds the typical NY program in this field by roughly $1,000. The $12,000 median debt sits comfortably below both state and national benchmarks, producing a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39 that most graduates should be able to manage.

The challenge here is the modest absolute earnings level. Even after four years, median earnings reach only $32,690—enough to cover basic expenses in many parts of upstate New York, but limiting long-term financial flexibility. The 7% earnings growth suggests gradual career progression rather than dramatic advancement. Compare this to Hudson Valley or Monroe Community College, where similar associate's degrees lead to starting salaries approaching $38,000.

For families weighing community college options in the Southern Tier, this program offers reasonable value: manageable debt and performance that's solid relative to other New York schools. Just recognize that business associate's degrees generally start low regardless of school, and this one follows that pattern. Students planning to transfer to a four-year program will find this a sensible stepping stone; those entering the workforce immediately should understand they're starting from a modest baseline.