Social Work at University at Albany

University at Albany's social work program starts slow but shows remarkable recovery. First-year graduates earn just $32,913—landing in the 22nd percentile nationally and below New York's state median—but by year four, earnings jump to $54,302. That 65% growth rate is substantially higher than most bachelor's programs and suggests graduates gain valuable professional credentials or clinical hours that boost their earning power significantly.

The $23,000 debt load is lower than both state and national medians, which partially offsets the weak initial earnings. Still, at 40th percentile among New York programs, this ranks in the bottom half statewide. Several CUNY campuses produce social work graduates earning $42,000-$44,000 right out of the gate, offering stronger immediate returns. The small sample size (under 30 graduates) makes these numbers less reliable, so individual outcomes could vary considerably.

For families comfortable with their child earning entry-level wages initially, the strong mid-career trajectory offers reassurance. But if minimizing financial stress in those crucial first years matters—especially for students without family support—the CUNY alternatives provide more immediate stability at comparable or lower debt levels.