At $17,231/yr net price, State University of New York at Oswego graduates earn $57,566/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $23,566/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $17,231 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $68,924 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $57,566/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$23,566/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 60.4% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $20,880 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $10,677/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $14,114/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $18,084/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $18,588/yr |
| $110,001+ | $23,253/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Certificate | $75,832 | |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $67,324 | $23,000 |
| Insurance. | Bachelor | $57,318 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $56,716 | $22,118 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Master | $52,941 | $20,500 |
| Finance and Financial Management Services. | Bachelor | $50,439 | $18,213 |
| Special Education and Teaching. | Master | $50,231 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Master | $49,832 | $20,500 |
| Human Resources Management and Services. | Bachelor | $39,832 | $19,250 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $39,009 | $21,195 |
The Risk Factor
60.4% of students at State University of New York at Oswego graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 40% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
SUNY Oswego delivers solid financial returns for a regional public university, with graduates earning above-average salaries relative to the school's affordable cost structure. The median debt load of $20,880 remains manageable against median earnings of $57,566, creating a reasonable debt-to-income ratio for most graduates.
Computer science stands out as the clear financial winner, generating $67,324 in median earnings with only modest additional debt. Business administration and accounting provide steady middle-class incomes in the mid-50s, while educational administration commands the highest salaries at $75,832 for those pursuing advanced degrees and leadership roles.
The school's biggest financial risk lies in its 60% graduation rate. If you struggle academically or lack clear career direction, you face real odds of leaving with debt but no degree. The 70% retention rate suggests many students transfer or drop out after freshman year, often carrying loans with them.
Oswego works best financially if you can secure in-state tuition and target high-demand majors like computer science or business. The school's location in central New York limits some career opportunities compared to downstate campuses, but also keeps living costs reasonable during your studies.
With only 39% of students receiving aid, merit scholarships appear limited. Your best cost strategy involves graduating on time in a marketable major while taking advantage of the relatively low net price. Students seeking prestige or access to high-paying coastal job markets should consider other options, but those wanting solid career preparation without excessive debt will find good value here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SUNY Oswego worth the cost compared to other state schools?
With a net price of $17,231 and graduates earning $57,566 after 10 years, SUNY Oswego provides decent value for a state university. The return on investment is reasonable but not exceptional, with graduates typically breaking even within 6-8 years.
What are the best paying majors at State University of New York at Oswego?
Educational Administration leads with $75,832 average earnings, followed by Computer Science at $67,324. Business and accounting programs pay around $53,000-$57,000, which is solid but not outstanding for these fields.
How much student debt do SUNY Oswego graduates typically have?
The median debt is $20,880, which is manageable given the school's low cost. Most graduates can handle this debt load with starting salaries, though the 60% graduation rate means many students leave without finishing their degree.
Should I attend State University of New York at Oswego for business or computer science?
Computer science graduates earn $67,324 on average, making it a better investment than business programs which pay around $57,000. Both are decent choices given the school's affordable cost, but computer science offers better long-term earning potential.