Head-to-Head Analysis
This analysis was generated using Azimuth's proprietary framework. Our data model transforms federal education data into actionable insights. Learn about founder Daniel Rogers, explore our research methodology, or see how we think about this data.
Updated January 2026 • Cortland, NY & Oneonta, NY
When students choose between State University Of New York At Cortland and SUNY Oneonta, they're comparing two similar SUNY campuses in central New York with comparable outcomes but different academic focuses. Both serve as regional public universities with medium-sized enrollments, but Cortland leans heavily toward education while Oneonta balances arts, business, and liberal arts.
The financial differences are modest, making program fit the primary decision factor.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$21,500
federal loans
$19,812
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$24,455
borrowed by parents
$24,845
borrowed by parents
Cortland is predominantly education-focused, with 25% of graduates earning degrees in education fields. The largest programs include Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education (300 graduates annually) and Teacher Education (191).
Oneonta has a more balanced program mix: 14% Arts, 13% Business, 12% Education. Oneonta's top programs include Communication (186 graduates), Business Economics (172), and Psychology (162).
This program composition shapes career paths, with Cortland preparing more teachers and Oneonta feeding diverse professional fields.
For students prioritizing teacher preparation and education careers, Cortland delivers stronger program concentration and institutional effectiveness despite the modest price premium. Oneonta offers broader program diversity at a slightly lower cost, making it better for students exploring liberal arts, communications, or business paths.
The financial picture is essentially neutral — both schools deliver similar debt burdens and earnings outcomes. Choose Cortland for education focus and stronger demographic performance, or Oneonta for program variety and marginally lower costs.
The right choice depends on your academic interests rather than financial differences, as both represent solid SUNY value.
Key Takeaway
The numbers are close, but the best school depends on your goals, values, and career aspirations.
This comparison was generated using Azimuth's proprietary ROI framework, developed by founder Daniel Rogers. Our methodology transforms federal education data into actionable insights for families.
This comparison uses Azimuth's proprietary ROI model based on U.S. Dept. of Education data. View Full Methodology.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or professional advice. Consult a qualified advisor before making any financial decisions.
College Azimuth is a private research initiative and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education or Federal Student Aid.
