Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 29.3%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $43,929
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $10,039
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 20:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 42.7%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $106/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $63,377 | $13,000 |
| Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions. | Associate | $41,160 | |
| Legal Support Services. | Associate | $31,848 | |
| Human Services, General. | Associate | $31,133 | $12,000 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Associate | $29,685 | $11,000 |
| Communication and Media Studies. | Associate | $26,933 | $8,937 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Associate | $25,967 | $7,599 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $21,588 | $9,779 |
Outcomes Overview
Dutchess graduates earn a median of $43,929 ten years after finishing, which puts their debt-to-earnings ratio at a manageable 23%. The monthly loan payment of $106 takes up just 2.9% of typical graduate income, well below the recommended 10% threshold. With 89.7% of graduates finding employment, the job market responds well to the college's programs in nursing, business, and criminal justice. Many students transfer to four-year schools like SUNY New Paltz or Marist College nearby, while others enter healthcare support roles, office work, or trades. The low debt load of $10,039 gives graduates flexibility to either continue their education or start working without crushing payments. This represents a strong return on investment for a two-year degree.