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Best Value Business Colleges in New York

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

New York University commands the highest net cost at $35,035 yet delivers earnings of $51,035, while Farmingdale State College achieves solid returns at just $9,173 annually. This wide pricing spectrum reflects New York's unique position as both a financial capital and a state with accessible public education options. The 18 programs span from SUNY Maritime's specialized approach yielding $52,107 in graduate earnings to broader business foundations at community-focused campuses. New York's concentration of Fortune 500 headquarters, financial services firms, and marketing agencies creates natural pathways for business graduates across all specialization levels. SUNY Plattsburgh graduates earn the highest at $59,350, demonstrating that geographic location doesn't always predict salary outcomes in a state where business opportunities extend far beyond Manhattan.
18
Programs
$9,173 – $35,035
Net Price Range
$42,503
Avg. Program Earnings
59.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

18 Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $9,173 $41,725 $8,576 57.1% 73.2%
2 $16,547 $59,350 $8,881 58.8% 70.2%
3 $21,781 $52,107 $8,540 74.9% 80.3%
4 $14,488 $32,071 $8,862 52.7% 81.7%
5 $17,387 $37,568 $8,710 48.0% 83.2%
6 $15,001 $28,960 $8,689 44.1% 94.9%
7 $35,035 $51,035 $60,438 88.5% 12.5%
8 $28,348 $37,208 $47,290 68.9% 72.8%
9 $23,027 $36,756 65.7% 73.6%
10 $34,581 $65,030 81.7% 25.5%
11 $23,461 $37,504 63.9% 99.5%
12 $17,980 $8,676 40.9% 84.0%
13 $26,881 $50,850 66.0% 82.3%
14 $17,393 $8,769 31.9% 87.2%
15 $15,644 $8,771 53.5% 84.6%
16 $17,231 $8,769 60.4% 82.6%
17 $18,244 $33,724 58.4% 79.9%
18 $22,701 $39,530 55.5% 50.6%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $50,000+ earnings gap between top and bottom programs?

SUNY Plattsburgh graduates earn $59,350 compared to $28,960 at SUNY Canton, reflecting both program focus and regional job markets. Plattsburgh's proximity to Montreal and strong alumni networks in government and finance contribute to higher starting salaries. Canton's rural location and emphasis on applied technology create different career trajectories. The 30,000+ earnings difference also reflects specialization depth and internship access.

How do SUNY schools compare to private alternatives for business value?

SUNY Maritime offers the best public option with $52,107 earnings and 74.90% graduation rates at $21,781 net cost. Private Russell Sage College costs $23,027 but lacks earnings data, while Manhattan College requires $26,881 for 66% graduation rates. Six SUNY campuses provide business training under $18,000 annually. The public system's TAP grant program further reduces costs for in-state students.

Does acceptance rate correlate with program quality in these business programs?

The data shows mixed patterns between selectivity and outcomes. NYU accepts just 12.46% of applicants and delivers strong earnings, while Roberts Wesleyan accepts 99.50% but maintains 63.90% graduation rates. SUNY Maritime combines 80.33% acceptance with the second-highest graduate earnings at $52,107. Highly selective Skidmore achieves 81.70% graduation rates, suggesting that institutional support matters more than admission difficulty.

Where do graduates typically find employment after completing these programs?

New York's business market spans Wall Street investment firms, Madison Avenue advertising agencies, and growing tech companies in Brooklyn and Queens. The state houses 51 Fortune 500 companies, creating management opportunities across industries from media conglomerates to healthcare systems. Many graduates enter roles in financial services, digital marketing, supply chain management, and corporate operations. The concentration of businesses means internship and networking opportunities during college often translate directly into full-time positions.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.