Physics at University at Albany

UAlbany's physics bachelor's runs slightly above the national median for first-year earnings, though these figures come from comparable New York programs rather than this school's specific graduates. With estimated earnings of $48,641 and debt of $24,227, you're looking at a debt burden equal to half a year's starting salary—manageable by physics standards, though not exceptional. The program sits in the middle of New York's physics landscape, below private schools like RPI ($60,348) but tracking with larger public institutions.

What matters more here is the four-year outlook: earnings jump to $57,690, suggesting physics grads find their footing after that challenging first year. Physics degrees often lead to graduate school or positions requiring additional certification, which can explain the modest starting point. The 42% Pell grant rate indicates this program serves students who may not have safety nets during career launches.

The practical calculation: you're borrowing roughly what one semester of earnings will cover after four years of work, and you're getting there at a public university price point. For families who need affordability while keeping graduate school options open, this represents solid value. The uncertainty is whether UAlbany's specific outcomes match its peer schools—without actual data, you're betting on the general strength of physics degrees in New York rather than this program's unique track record.