At $9,173/yr net price, Farmingdale State College graduates earn $69,781/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $35,781/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $9,173 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $36,692 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $69,781/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$35,781/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 1 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 57.1% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $14,718 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $3,865/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $6,366/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $10,730/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $13,143/yr |
| $110,001+ | $16,356/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $93,439 | $16,289 |
| Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions. | Bachelor | $69,338 | $19,977 |
| Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $60,358 | $14,110 |
| Construction Engineering Technologies. | Bachelor | $58,221 | $15,000 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Bachelor | $57,318 | |
| Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $54,463 | $14,000 |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Associate | $53,108 | $13,564 |
| Information Science/Studies. | Bachelor | $51,035 | |
| Engineering Technologies/Technicians, Other. | Bachelor | $47,520 | |
| Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $45,529 |
The Risk Factor
57.1% of students at Farmingdale State College graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
Farmingdale State College delivers strong financial returns for a public college, with median earnings of $69,781 against a net price of just $9,173 per year. The low debt burden of $14,718 makes this one of the better ROI propositions in the SUNY system.
Nursing stands out as the financial winner, with graduates earning $93,439 while carrying only slightly higher debt at $16,289. Clinical lab science also pays well at $69,338, though debt runs higher at nearly $20,000. Engineering technology programs hit the sweet spot with solid earnings around $60,000 and manageable debt levels.
Criminal justice graduates face tougher financial prospects, earning $57,318 in a field known for limited salary growth. You should weigh career passion against earning potential if considering this major.
The 57% graduation rate presents the biggest financial risk. Nearly half of students leave without a degree but may still carry debt. The 81% retention rate suggests most academic struggles surface after the first year.
You get the best value if you can complete your degree in four years and choose a technical or healthcare program. The school works well for Long Island residents who can commute and avoid housing costs. Out-of-state students should look elsewhere given limited merit aid opportunities.
With only 36% of students receiving financial aid, most families pay the full net price. This suggests either strong middle-class enrollment or limited aid availability. You should apply for aid regardless, but do not expect significant merit scholarships to reduce your costs further.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Farmingdale State College worth the cost?
Farmingdale State College offers solid value with a low net price of $9,173 and graduates earning $69,781 after 10 years. The relatively low median debt of $14,718 makes it a reasonable investment for most students.
What are the best paying programs at Farmingdale State College?
Nursing programs at Farmingdale State College lead in earnings at $93,439, followed by medical lab science at $69,338. Engineering technology and construction programs also pay well, while criminal justice graduates earn less at $57,318.
How much debt do Farmingdale State College graduates have?
Farmingdale State College graduates have a median debt of $14,718, which is manageable given the school's low cost and decent earning outcomes. This debt level is below many four-year colleges.
What is the graduation rate at Farmingdale State College?
Farmingdale State College has a 57% graduation rate, which is concerning and below the national average. Students should consider this risk when weighing the school's otherwise decent financial value.