Students at SUNY College at Plattsburgh benefit from an institution that successfully balances broad access with solid long-term outcomes, particularly for first-generation and low-income students.
The college delivers above-average earnings and maintains affordable pricing that creates sustainable pathways to career success.
SUNY College at Plattsburgh ranks as a reliable choice among public four-year institutions, delivering consistent outcomes across multiple measures of student success. Nearly 39% of students receive Pell Grants and about 31% are first-generation college students, yet the institution maintains solid graduation rates and earnings that place it above average nationally. With a 59% six-year graduation rate and median 10-year earnings of $56,403, Plattsburgh demonstrates how a mid-sized public college can effectively serve diverse student populations.
The college's strength lies in its balanced approach to access and outcomes. As a designated "Mobility Engine," Plattsburgh combines broad accessibility with meaningful economic advancement for students from all backgrounds. Net prices remain affordable across income levels, with low-income students paying about $10,585 annually and middle-income families seeing costs around $16,685. This pricing structure, combined with manageable debt levels and strong program offerings in fields like nursing and business, creates a foundation for long-term financial stability.
Located in upstate New York near the Canadian border, SUNY Plattsburgh offers the advantages of a comprehensive public college with a focus on undergraduate education. The institution's commitment to supporting first-generation and Pell-eligible students while maintaining solid academic and financial outcomes makes it a dependable choice for families seeking quality higher education without excessive financial risk.
SUNY College at Plattsburgh's program portfolio reflects a comprehensive public college focused on professional preparation and career readiness. Adult Health Nursing emerges as the standout program, combining substantial enrollment of 104 graduates with excellent earnings outcomes at $71,095, making it both a popular choice and a high-return investment. This program exemplifies how Plattsburgh leverages regional healthcare demand to create strong career pathways for students.
Business Administration and Management represents the college's largest program footprint with 174 graduates, though earnings are more moderate at $41,007, reflecting the broad applicability and varied career paths within business fields. Banking and Financial Support Services, while smaller with 24 graduates, delivers the highest individual earnings at $50,856, demonstrating specialized program strength in financial services. Psychology, with 93 graduates earning $28,327, represents the liberal arts component of Plattsburgh's offerings, providing foundational preparation for graduate study or entry-level positions in human services.
The program mix reveals Plattsburgh's strategic focus on professional fields that align with regional economic needs while maintaining comprehensive liberal arts offerings. Nursing and business programs drive the institution's strongest return on investment, while the college's commitment to diverse academic pathways ensures students can pursue their interests across multiple disciplines with reasonable career prospects.
SUNY College at Plattsburgh graduates achieve solid long-term financial outcomes that place the institution above average nationally. Ten years after enrollment, graduates earn a median of $56,403, positioning the college in the 67th percentile among similar institutions. While earnings performance is slightly below expectations compared with peer colleges, the outcomes remain competitive and provide graduates with a strong foundation for financial stability and career growth.
The college's program mix drives much of its return on investment story. Adult Health Nursing stands out as the highest aggregate return program, with 104 graduates earning a median of $71,095 ten years out, reflecting both strong enrollment and excellent pay in this high-demand field. Business Administration and Management represents the largest program footprint with 174 graduates, though earnings are more moderate at $41,007. Banking and Financial Support Services delivers the highest individual earnings at $50,856, while Psychology graduates see lower but still viable outcomes at $28,327. This range reflects Plattsburgh's comprehensive program portfolio, with professional programs like nursing leading earnings outcomes while liberal arts fields provide solid preparation for diverse career paths.
SUNY College at Plattsburgh maintains strong affordability across all income levels, making it accessible to families throughout the economic spectrum. Low-income students pay approximately $10,585 per year after aid, well below national averages for public institutions, while middle-income families see annual costs around $16,685. Even high-income families face predictable expenses at about $23,723, creating transparency in college planning and budgeting that helps families make informed decisions about their educational investment.
Debt levels remain manageable for most Plattsburgh graduates. Students typically leave with about $21,196 in federal loan debt, a reasonable amount given the institution's solid earnings outcomes. Parent PLUS borrowing averages $16,685, reflecting moderate family contributions that align with the college's accessible pricing structure. The combination of affordable net prices and reasonable debt loads creates a sustainable financial model that allows graduates to enter their careers without overwhelming repayment burdens, supporting long-term financial health and career flexibility.
Suny College At Plattsburgh Hub Overview
Executive summary with admissions, cost, outcomes, and program analysis
