[College research](/) / [Rankings](/rankings/)

# Best Public Administration Colleges in the Northeast (2026)

Updated September 30, 2026

Regional list from [Public Administration Colleges in the United States](/rankings/best-public-administration-colleges/)

Programs in this field[Public Administration](/rankings/best-public-administration-programs-in-the-northeast/)[Social Work](/rankings/best-social-work-colleges-in-the-northeast/)

This page ranks the 104 Public Administration programs in the Northeast by the median earnings of Public Administration graduates four years after completing. [Cornell University](/school/cornell-university/majors/) leads the list at $126,767, followed by [Princeton University](/school/princeton-university/majors/) at $107,792 and [Brown University](/school/brown-university/majors/) at $94,962.

Across the 100 schools with a published figure, median earnings reach $57,880, with a spread of $94,376 from $126,767 to $32,391. For 5 of the 104 listed programs the figure is the two-year completion median rather than the four-year one.

The list includes 47 public and 57 private nonprofit institutions. CUNY Hunter College posts the lowest average net price at $2,984, while Princeton University reports the highest six-year completion rate at 98%.

On Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, CUNY Bernard M Baruch College ranks 2nd.

## The ranked list

104 schools in list order

| Rank | School | Median Public Administration Earnings | Average net price | Net price, families under $30K | Admission rate |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | Cornell University · Ithaca, NY | $126,767 | $28,690 | $1,776 | 8.8% |
|  | [Cornell University](/school/cornell-university/majors/) reports [$126,767 in median earnings](/school/cornell-university/outcomes/) for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, the highest on this list. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Public Policy Analysis (67 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Public Policy Analysis ($126,767) |
| 2 | Princeton University · Princeton, NJ | $107,792 | $6,128 | $41 | 4.6% |
|  | With a [six-year completion rate of 98%](/school/princeton-university/outcomes/), [Princeton University](/school/princeton-university/majors/) posts $107,792 in median earnings for Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Public Policy Analysis (120 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Public Policy Analysis ($107,792) |
| 3 | Brown University · Providence, RI | $94,962 | $25,184 | \-$420\* | 5.4% |
|  | [Brown University](/school/brown-university/majors/) [admits 5% of applicants](/school/brown-university/admissions/) and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $94,962 four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Public Policy Analysis (30 graduates) |
| 4 | Trinity College · Hartford, CT | $82,638 | $34,832 | $11,054 | 29.3% |
|  | [Trinity College](/school/trinity-college/majors/) carries an [average net price of $34,832](/school/trinity-college/cost/) and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $82,638 four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Public Policy Analysis (40 graduates) |
| 5 | Syracuse University · Syracuse, NY | $81,280 | $38,793 | $15,817 | 45.9% |
|  | [Syracuse University](/school/syracuse-university/majors/) ranks 5th on this list with [median earnings of $81,280](/school/syracuse-university/outcomes/) for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, alongside a six-year completion rate of 84%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Public Administration (85 graduates), Human Services, General (24 graduates), Social Work (20 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Public Administration ($89,732) |
| 6 | Brandeis University · Waltham, MA | $75,580 | $35,736 | $13,363 | 40.5% |
|  | A private nonprofit university in Waltham, [Brandeis University](/school/brandeis-university/majors/) reports [median earnings of $75,580](/school/brandeis-university/outcomes/) for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $35,736. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Public Policy Analysis (111 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Public Policy Analysis ($75,580) |
| 7 | Providence College · Providence, RI | $70,356 | $48,523 | $28,152 | 50.9% |
|  | Providence College ranks 924th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and reports $70,356 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (17 graduates), Community Organization and Advocacy (10 graduates) |
| 8 | CUNY Hunter College · New York, NY | $70,273 | $2,984 | $1,029 | 53.8% |
|  | [CUNY Hunter College](/school/cuny-hunter-college/majors/) carries the lowest average net price on the page at $2,984 and its Public Administration graduates earn a [median of $70,273](/school/cuny-hunter-college/outcomes/) four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (43 graduates) |
| 9 | CUNY Bernard M Baruch College · New York, NY | $69,033 | $3,033 | $607 | 47.5% |
|  | On Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, [CUNY Bernard M Baruch College](/school/cuny-bernard-m-baruch-college/majors/) ranks 2nd and reports [median earnings of $69,033](/school/cuny-bernard-m-baruch-college/outcomes/) for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Public Administration (38 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Public Administration ($69,033) |
| 10 | CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice · New York, NY | $66,834 | $3,203 | $1,073 | 57.1% |
|  | [CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice](/school/cuny-john-jay-college-of-criminal-justice/majors/) [admits 57% of applicants](/school/cuny-john-jay-college-of-criminal-justice/admissions/) and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $66,834 four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (65 graduates), Public Administration (43 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Public Administration ($66,834) |
| 11 | Iona University · New Rochelle, NY | $66,417 | $29,188 | $25,785 | 86.9% |
|  | Iona University reports median earnings of $66,417 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and a six-year completion rate of 56%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (17 graduates) |
| 12 | Fordham University · Bronx, NY | $66,349 | $44,338 | $32,474 | 59.3% |
|  | [Fordham University](/school/fordham-university/majors/) posts [median earnings of $66,349](/school/fordham-university/outcomes/) for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $44,338. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (16 graduates) |
| 13 | Adelphi University · Garden City, NY | $66,162 | $30,783 | $24,095 | 65.9% |
|  | [Adelphi University](/school/adelphi-university/majors/) reports [median earnings of $66,162](/school/adelphi-university/outcomes/) for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and its six-year completion rate stands at 67%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (43 graduates) |
| 14 | Dominican University New York · Orangeburg, NY | $64,672 | $41,832 | $40,695 | 63.3% |
|  | With an average net price of $40,695 for families earning under $30,000, Dominican University New York ranks 14th on this list. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (6 graduates) |
| 15 | University of Connecticut · Storrs, CT | $64,389 | $25,097 | $15,193 | 52.4% |
|  | [University of Connecticut](/school/university-of-connecticut/majors/), a public university in Storrs, [admits 52% of applicants](/school/university-of-connecticut/admissions/) and posts a six-year completion rate of 83%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Public Policy Analysis (31 graduates), Social Work (14 graduates) |
| 16 | Seton Hall University · South Orange, NJ | $63,559 | $31,446 | $19,623 | 73.3% |
|  | Seton Hall University ranks 445th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and reports median earnings of $63,559 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (17 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($63,559) |
| 17 | Simmons University · Boston, MA | $62,992 | $25,265 | $18,027 | 70.0% |
|  | Graduates of Simmons University earn a median of $62,992 four years after completing, and the school's average net price is $25,265. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (19 graduates) |
| 18 | CUNY Lehman College · Bronx, NY | $62,955 | $3,148 | $1,589 | 56.6% |
|  | [CUNY Lehman College](/school/cuny-lehman-college/majors/) carries an [average net price of $3,148](/school/cuny-lehman-college/cost/) and reports a six-year completion rate of 51%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (133 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($62,955) |
| 19 | Centenary University · Hackettstown, NJ | $62,373 | $20,503 | $13,329 | 83.1% |
|  | Centenary University admits 83% of applicants and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $62,373 four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (12 graduates) |
| 20 | Albertus Magnus College · New Haven, CT | $62,035 | $34,028 | $35,343 | 59.3% |
|  | Ranking 892nd on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, Albertus Magnus College reports an average net price of $35,343 for families earning under $30,000. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Community Organization and Advocacy (17 graduates) |
| 21 | Eastern Connecticut State University · Willimantic, CT | $61,908 | $21,067 | $17,654 | 83.0% |
|  | [Eastern Connecticut State University](/school/eastern-connecticut-state-university/majors/) posts a [six-year completion rate of 58%](/school/eastern-connecticut-state-university/outcomes/) and median earnings of $61,908 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (39 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($61,908) |
| 22 | Anna Maria College · Paxton, MA | $61,652 | $28,333 | $25,554 | 50.3% |
|  | With an admission rate of 50%, Anna Maria College reports median earnings of $61,652 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (16 graduates), Human Services, General (6 graduates), Community Organization and Advocacy (5 graduates) |
| 23 | College of Staten Island CUNY · Staten Island, NY | $61,558 | $5,579 | $3,903 | 92.3% |
|  | [College of Staten Island CUNY](/school/college-of-staten-island-cuny/majors/) [ranks 93rd on Azimuth's composite ranking](/school/college-of-staten-island-cuny/) among nonprofit four-year institutions and carries an average net price of $5,579. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (25 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($61,558) |
| 24 | Skidmore College · Saratoga Springs, NY | $61,428 | $32,297 | $9,932 | 21.1% |
|  | [Skidmore College](/school/skidmore-college/majors/) [admits 21% of applicants](/school/skidmore-college/admissions/), and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $61,428 four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (17 graduates) |
| 25 | Northeastern University · Boston, MA | $61,152 | $30,915 | $2,264 | 5.2% |
|  | [Northeastern University](/school/northeastern-university/majors/) posts a [six-year completion rate of 91%](/school/northeastern-university/outcomes/) and an average net price of $30,915. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (18 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Human Services, General ($61,152) |
| 26 | College of Our Lady of the Elms · Chicopee, MA | $60,938 | $17,545 | $8,099 | 85.3% |
|  | College of Our Lady of the Elms reports median earnings of $60,938 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and admits 85% of applicants. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (46 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($60,938) |
| 27 | CUNY York College · Jamaica, NY | $60,820 | $4,456 | $2,861 | 64.1% |
|  | With an [average net price of $4,456,](/school/cuny-york-college/cost/) [CUNY York College](/school/cuny-york-college/majors/) ranks 27th on this list and reports a six-year completion rate of 32%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (81 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($60,820) |
| 28 | Siena University · Loudonville, NY | $60,100 | $33,733 | $26,417 | 69.0% |
|  | Siena University, a private nonprofit university in Loudonville, reports median earnings of $60,100 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (15 graduates) |
| 29 | St. Joseph's University-New York · Brooklyn, NY | $60,091 | $19,035 | $16,876 | 72.1% |
|  | [St. Joseph's University-New York](/school/st-josephs-university-new-york/majors/) [admits 72% of applicants](/school/st-josephs-university-new-york/admissions/) and reports an average net price of $16,876 for families earning under $30,000. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (14 graduates) |
| 30 | Salem State University · Salem, MA | $60,026 | $15,996 | $10,516 | 95.9% |
|  | [Salem State University](/school/salem-state-university/majors/) ranks 30th on this list with [median earnings of $60,026](/school/salem-state-university/outcomes/) for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (48 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($60,026) |
| 31 | Rutgers University-New Brunswick · New Brunswick, NJ | $60,017 | $24,406 | $16,343 | 58.2% |
|  | [Rutgers University-New Brunswick](/school/rutgers-university-new-brunswick/majors/) holds an [Azimuth composite rank of 30th](/school/rutgers-university-new-brunswick/) among nonprofit four-year institutions and reports a six-year completion rate of 84%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (83 graduates), Public Policy Analysis (18 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($56,797) |
| 32 | State University of New York at Plattsburgh · Plattsburgh, NY | $59,925 | $17,156 | $9,400 | 78.4% |
|  | [State University of New York at Plattsburgh](/school/state-university-of-new-york-at-plattsburgh/majors/) reports [median earnings of $59,925](/school/state-university-of-new-york-at-plattsburgh/outcomes/) for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, alongside an average net price of $17,156. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (38 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($59,925) |
| 33 | Widener University · Chester, PA | $59,654 | $25,759 | $21,200 | 70.9% |
|  | [Widener University](/school/widener-university/majors/) [admits 71% of applicants](/school/widener-university/admissions/) and reports a six-year completion rate of 68%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (8 graduates) |
| 34 | New York University · New York, NY | $59,593 | $37,050 | $16,977 | 9.2% |
|  | [New York University](/school/new-york-university/majors/) reports [median earnings of $59,593](/school/new-york-university/outcomes/) for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and admits 9% of applicants. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (31 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($59,593) |
| 35 | Bridgewater State University · Bridgewater, MA | $59,510 | $16,383 | $10,007 | 87.8% |
|  | [Bridgewater State University](/school/bridgewater-state-university/majors/) ranks 35th on this list with an [average net price of $16,383](/school/bridgewater-state-university/cost/) and a six-year completion rate of 53%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (92 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($59,510) |
| 36 | University at Albany · Albany, NY | $59,475 | $17,167 | $11,112 | 69.1% |
|  | [University at Albany](/school/university-at-albany/majors/) reports [median earnings of $59,475](/school/university-at-albany/outcomes/) for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and holds an Azimuth composite rank of 113th among nonprofit four-year institutions. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Public Policy Analysis (29 graduates), Social Work (22 graduates) |
| 37 | University of Saint Joseph · West Hartford, CT | $59,465 | $27,989 | $24,563 | 78.6% |
|  | At University of Saint Joseph, $59,465 in median earnings for Public Administration graduates four years after completing coincides with a six-year completion rate of 64%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (13 graduates) |
| 38 | Stony Brook University · Stony Brook, NY | $59,449 | $18,784 | $12,943 | 49.0% |
|  | With an [average net price of $18,784,](/school/stony-brook-university/cost/) [Stony Brook University](/school/stony-brook-university/majors/) ranks 45th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (62 graduates) |
| 39 | Southern Connecticut State University · New Haven, CT | $59,438 | $20,857 | $17,736 | 91.5% |
|  | [Southern Connecticut State University](/school/southern-connecticut-state-university/majors/), a public university in New Haven, posts a [six-year completion rate of 50%](/school/southern-connecticut-state-university/outcomes/) alongside median earnings of $59,438 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (64 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($59,438) |
| 40 | Long Island University · Brookville, NY | $59,425 | $33,062 | $22,019 | 86.2% |
|  | [Long Island University](/school/long-island-university/majors/) reports [median earnings of $59,425](/school/long-island-university/outcomes/) for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and its six-year completion rate is 57%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (17 graduates) |
| 41 | Central Connecticut State University · New Britain, CT | $59,309 | $16,857 | $13,589 | 73.3% |
|  | [Central Connecticut State University](/school/central-connecticut-state-university/majors/) ranks 41st on this list with [median earnings of $59,309,](/school/central-connecticut-state-university/outcomes/) and its average net price is $16,857. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (50 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($59,309) |
| 42 | CUNY Medgar Evers College · Brooklyn, NY | $59,211 | $5,718 | $4,368 | 86.1% |
|  | [CUNY Medgar Evers College](/school/cuny-medgar-evers-college/majors/) posts a [six-year completion rate of 20%](/school/cuny-medgar-evers-college/outcomes/) and an average net price of $4,368 for families earning under $30,000. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (66 graduates), Public Administration (19 graduates) |
| 43 | Monmouth University · West Long Branch, NJ | $59,147 | $30,988 | $18,924 | 89.0% |
|  | [Monmouth University](/school/monmouth-university/majors/) [admits 89% of applicants](/school/monmouth-university/admissions/) and reports median earnings of $59,147 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (36 graduates) |
| 44 | Molloy University · Rockville Centre, NY | $59,130 | $24,347 | $17,548 | 81.7% |
|  | [Molloy University](/school/molloy-university/majors/), a private nonprofit university in Rockville Centre, [ranks 212th on Azimuth's composite ranking](/school/molloy-university/) among nonprofit four-year institutions and posts a six-year completion rate of 70%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (11 graduates) |
| 45 | Stockton University · Galloway, NJ | $59,102 | $20,670 | $15,135 | 88.9% |
|  | [Stockton University](/school/stockton-university/majors/) reports an [average net price of $15,135](/school/stockton-university/cost/) for families earning under $30,000 and a six-year completion rate of 69%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (83 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($59,102) |
| 46 | Sacred Heart University · Fairfield, CT | $58,384 | $46,174 | $38,691 | 65.4% |
|  | [Sacred Heart University](/school/sacred-heart-university/majors/) ranks 46th on this list with [median earnings of $58,384,](/school/sacred-heart-university/outcomes/) and its average net price is $46,174. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (14 graduates) |
| 47 | Ramapo College of New Jersey · Mahwah, NJ | $58,371 | $18,173 | $9,008 | 70.6% |
|  | [Ramapo College of New Jersey](/school/ramapo-college-of-new-jersey/majors/) [admits 71% of applicants](/school/ramapo-college-of-new-jersey/admissions/) and reports median earnings of $58,371 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (57 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($58,371) |
| 48 | University of New Hampshire-Main Campus · Durham, NH | $58,308 | $23,805 | $16,523 | 88.2% |
|  | [University of New Hampshire-Main Campus](/school/university-of-new-hampshire-main-campus/majors/) posts a [six-year completion rate of 76%](/school/university-of-new-hampshire-main-campus/outcomes/) and an average net price of $16,523 for families earning under $30,000. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (54 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($58,308) |
| 49 | Kean University · Union, NJ | $58,100 | $12,447 | $7,374 | 75.9% |
|  | [Kean University](/school/kean-university/majors/) reports [median earnings of $58,100](/school/kean-university/outcomes/) for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and its average net price is $12,447. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Public Administration (17 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Public Administration ($58,100) |
| 50 | Mount Saint Mary College · Newburgh, NY | $57,910 | $25,522 | $18,747 | 88.9% |
|  | Mount Saint Mary College, a private nonprofit college in Newburgh, ranks 50th on this list with a six-year completion rate of 65%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (7 graduates) |
| 51 | Daemen University · Amherst, NY | $57,850 | $18,693 | $10,773 | 68.3% |
|  | Daemen University admits 68% of applicants and posts median earnings of $57,850 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (19 graduates) |
| 52 | CUNY New York City College of Technology · Brooklyn, NY | $56,827 | $5,127 | $3,810 | 80.3% |
|  | [CUNY New York City College of Technology](/school/cuny-new-york-city-college-of-technology/majors/) has an [average net price of $5,127](/school/cuny-new-york-city-college-of-technology/cost/) and ranks 60th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (101 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Human Services, General ($56,827) |
| 53 | Alvernia University · Reading, PA | $56,243 | $28,138 | $23,436 | 58.1% |
|  | Alvernia University reports median earnings of $56,243 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, alongside a six-year completion rate of 56%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (18 graduates) |
| 54 | University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus · Pittsburgh, PA | $56,092 | $30,434 | $14,709 | 58.1% |
|  | [University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus](/school/university-of-pittsburgh-pittsburgh-campus/majors/) [graduates 86% of its students within six years](/school/university-of-pittsburgh-pittsburgh-campus/outcomes/) and reports an average net price of $30,434. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (22 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($56,092) |
| 55 | Western Connecticut State University · Danbury, CT | $56,058 | $17,604 | $13,507 | 87.0% |
|  | [Western Connecticut State University](/school/western-connecticut-state-university/majors/) ranks 55th on this list with [median earnings of $56,058](/school/western-connecticut-state-university/outcomes/) for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (35 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($56,058) |
| 56 | Westfield State University · Westfield, MA | $55,699 | $16,721 | $10,751 | 81.4% |
|  | [Westfield State University](/school/westfield-state-university/majors/) [admits 81% of applicants](/school/westfield-state-university/admissions/) and has an average net price of $10,751 for families earning under $30,000. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (32 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($55,699) |
| 57 | SUNY Brockport · Brockport, NY | $55,602 | $16,353 | $10,911 | 70.7% |
|  | [SUNY Brockport](/school/suny-brockport/majors/) reports [median earnings of $55,602](/school/suny-brockport/outcomes/) for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and ranks 344th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (57 graduates) |
| 58 | Marist University · Poughkeepsie, NY | $55,501 | $41,544 | $26,083 | 56.5% |
|  | [Marist University](/school/marist-university/majors/) has a [six-year completion rate of 80%](/school/marist-university/outcomes/) and an average net price of $41,544. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (19 graduates) |
| 59 | La Salle University · Philadelphia, PA | $55,431 | $19,409 | $16,545 | 96.6% |
|  | La Salle University admits 97% of applicants and reports median earnings of $55,431 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (34 graduates) |
| 60 | Gordon College · Wenham, MA | $55,315 | $24,883 | $21,829 | 69.2% |
|  | Gordon College ranks 60th on this list with a six-year completion rate of 69% and an average net price of $24,883. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (12 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($55,315) |
| 61 | Mercy University · Dobbs Ferry, NY | $55,158 | $14,072 | $11,974 | 85.8% |
|  | [Mercy University](/school/mercy-university/majors/), a private nonprofit university in Dobbs Ferry, reports [median earnings of $55,158](/school/mercy-university/outcomes/) for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (30 graduates), Human Services, General (21 graduates), Public Policy Analysis (8 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($59,024), Human Services, General ($49,634) |
| 62 | Keuka College · Keuka Park, NY | $54,540 | $24,338 | $19,368 | 68.1% |
|  | With a six-year completion rate of 58%, Keuka College ranks 62nd on this list and carries an average net price of $24,338. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (95 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($54,540) |
| 63 | University of Vermont · Burlington, VT | $54,235 | $19,343 | $11,127 | 65.3% |
|  | [University of Vermont](/school/university-of-vermont/majors/) [admits 65% of applicants](/school/university-of-vermont/admissions/) and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $54,235 four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (29 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($54,235) |
| 64 | Temple University · Philadelphia, PA | $54,166 | $28,198 | $22,694 | 80.4% |
|  | [Temple University](/school/temple-university/majors/) [ranks 125th on Azimuth's composite ranking](/school/temple-university/) among nonprofit four-year institutions and posts a six-year completion rate of 75%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (64 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($54,166) |
| 65 | SUNY at Fredonia · Fredonia, NY | $53,223 | $15,897 | $9,395 | 77.7% |
|  | An [average net price of $9,395](/school/suny-at-fredonia/cost/) for families earning under $30,000 accompanies median earnings of $53,223 for Public Administration graduates at [SUNY at Fredonia](/school/suny-at-fredonia/majors/). |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (36 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($53,223) |
| 66 | SUNY Buffalo State University · Buffalo, NY | $53,130 | $11,346 | $7,405 | 73.0% |
|  | [SUNY Buffalo State University](/school/suny-buffalo-state-university/majors/) reports [median earnings of $53,130](/school/suny-buffalo-state-university/outcomes/) for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $11,346. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (61 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($53,130) |
| 67 | Fitchburg State University · Fitchburg, MA | $52,945 | $14,262 | $10,204 | 86.9% |
|  | Ranking 67th on this list, Fitchburg State University admits 87% of applicants and graduates 55% of its students within six years. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (30 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Human Services, General ($52,945) |
| 68 | University of Southern Maine · Portland, ME | $52,903 | $13,596 | $9,999 | 79.2% |
|  | [University of Southern Maine](/school/university-of-southern-maine/majors/) shows a [six-year completion rate of 40%](/school/university-of-southern-maine/outcomes/) and an average net price of $9,999 for families earning under $30,000. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (27 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($52,903) |
| 69 | Elizabethtown College · Elizabethtown, PA | $52,669 | $26,598 | $17,776 | 77.9% |
|  | Elizabethtown College, a private nonprofit college in Elizabethtown, reports median earnings of $52,669 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (9 graduates), Social Work (6 graduates) |
| 70 | Nazareth University · Rochester, NY | No published median | $29,357 | $22,796 | 74.7% |
|  | [Nazareth University](/school/nazareth-university/majors/) [ranks 1343rd on Azimuth's composite ranking](/school/nazareth-university/) among nonprofit four-year institutions and admits 75% of applicants. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (28 graduates), Community Organization and Advocacy (6 graduates) |
| 71 | Plymouth State University · Plymouth, NH | $52,587 | $19,216 | $14,676 | 87.5% |
|  | With an admission rate of 88%, Plymouth State University reports median earnings of $52,587 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (19 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($52,587) |
| 72 | Messiah University · Mechanicsburg, PA | $52,511 | $26,502 | $19,393 | 79.0% |
|  | Messiah University posts a six-year completion rate of 75% and an average net price of $19,393 for families earning under $30,000. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (17 graduates) |
| 73 | University of Scranton · Scranton, PA | $52,172 | $32,568 | $23,896 | 81.2% |
|  | [University of Scranton](/school/university-of-scranton/majors/) reports [median earnings of $52,172](/school/university-of-scranton/outcomes/) for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and an average net price of $32,568. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (30 graduates) |
| 74 | Touro University · New York, NY | $51,886 | $29,627 | $26,605 | 60.8% |
|  | With a six-year completion rate of 72%, Touro University ranks 74th on this list and posts median earnings of $51,886 four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (42 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Human Services, General ($51,886) |
| 75 | University of Rhode Island · Kingston, RI | $51,697 | $21,440 | $14,368 | 72.2% |
|  | [University of Rhode Island](/school/university-of-rhode-island/majors/), a public university in Kingston, [admits 72% of applicants](/school/university-of-rhode-island/admissions/) and shows median earnings of $51,697 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Public Policy Analysis (41 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Public Policy Analysis ($51,697) |
| 76 | Montclair State University · Montclair, NJ | $51,646 | $15,566 | $10,880 | 87.9% |
|  | [Montclair State University](/school/montclair-state-university/majors/) reports an [average net price of $10,880](/school/montclair-state-university/cost/) for families earning under $30,000 and median earnings of $51,646 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (42 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($51,646) |
| 77 | Canisius University · Buffalo, NY | $51,522 | $17,940 | $12,781 | 72.4% |
|  | Ranking 77th on this list, Canisius University reports a six-year completion rate of 66% and median earnings of $51,522 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (9 graduates) |
| 78 | University of Maine · Orono, ME | $51,470 | $17,510 | $12,642 | 96.6% |
|  | [University of Maine](/school/university-of-maine/majors/) [admits 97% of applicants](/school/university-of-maine/admissions/) and graduates 55% within six years, while its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $51,470 four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (30 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($51,470) |
| 79 | Rhode Island College · Providence, RI | No published median | $9,478 | $6,378 | 91.8% |
|  | [Rhode Island College](/school/rhode-island-college/majors/), a public institution in Providence, ranks 79th on this list and holds an [average net price of $9,478](/school/rhode-island-college/cost/). |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (101 graduates), Public Administration (10 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($53,312) |
| 80 | University of Massachusetts-Boston · Boston, MA | $51,034 | $17,707 | $14,070 | 83.8% |
|  | [University of Massachusetts-Boston](/school/university-of-massachusetts-boston/majors/) reports [median earnings of $51,034](/school/university-of-massachusetts-boston/outcomes/) for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and ranks 122nd on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (22 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($51,034) |
| 81 | East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania · East Stroudsburg, PA | $50,979 | $18,134 | $15,365 | 92.1% |
|  | With an [admission rate of 92%](/school/east-stroudsburg-university-of-pennsylvania/admissions/), [East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania](/school/east-stroudsburg-university-of-pennsylvania/majors/) shows median earnings of $50,979 four years after completing and a six-year completion rate of 43%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (27 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($50,979) |
| 82 | Hamilton College · Clinton, NY | $50,856 | $28,985 | $8,028 | 13.6% |
|  | Hamilton College reports median earnings of $50,856 for its Public Administration graduates two years after completing, and an average net price of $8,028 for families earning under $30,000. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Public Policy Analysis (21 graduates) |
| 83 | Lincoln University · Lincoln University, PA | $50,390 | $14,977 | $14,011 | 65.7% |
|  | Lincoln University ranks 83rd on this list with median earnings of $50,390 four years after completing, and carries an average net price of $14,977. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (46 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Human Services, General ($50,390) |
| 84 | Hilbert College · Hamburg, NY | $50,111 | $22,723 | $20,903 | 97.2% |
|  | Hilbert College admits 97% of applicants and reports median earnings of $50,111 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (14 graduates) |
| 85 | Elmira College · Elmira, NY | $49,723 | $22,386 | $17,392 | 77.0% |
|  | Elmira College, a private nonprofit institution in Elmira, reports median earnings of $49,723 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (9 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Human Services, General ($49,723) |
| 86 | Millersville University of Pennsylvania · Millersville, PA | $49,400 | $20,787 | $14,565 | 86.2% |
|  | With an average net price of $20,787, Millersville University of Pennsylvania ranks 86th on this list and posts a six-year completion rate of 58%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (87 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($49,400) |
| 87 | Fisher College · Boston, MA | $48,902 | $26,649 | $25,071 | 70.7% |
|  | Fisher College admits 71% of applicants and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $48,902 four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (29 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Human Services, General ($48,902) |
| 88 | Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania · Bloomsburg, PA | $48,454 | $15,699 | $11,374 | 93.1% |
|  | Ranking 88th on this page, [Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania](/school/commonwealth-university-of-pennsylvania/majors/) shows an [average net price of $15,699](/school/commonwealth-university-of-pennsylvania/cost/) and a six-year completion rate of 54%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (92 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($48,454) |
| 89 | Chestnut Hill College · Philadelphia, PA | $48,375 | $27,970 | $28,011 | 74.5% |
|  | Chestnut Hill College reports median earnings of $48,375 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, alongside an admission rate of 74%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (43 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Human Services, General ($48,375) |
| 90 | Georgian Court University · Lakewood, NJ | $48,365 | $19,285 | $12,683 | 78.8% |
|  | Georgian Court University ranks 856th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and graduates 54% of its students within six years. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (30 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($48,365) |
| 91 | Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania · Shippensburg, PA | No published median | $23,726 | $18,709 | 86.5% |
|  | Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania, a public university in Shippensburg, has an average net price of $23,726 and an admission rate of 86%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (41 graduates), Public Administration (9 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($49,794) |
| 92 | Carlow University · Pittsburgh, PA | $47,486 | $20,786 | $17,901 | 87.0% |
|  | Graduates of the Public Administration program at Carlow University earn a median of $47,486 four years after completing, and the school admits 87% of applicants. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (8 graduates) |
| 93 | Kutztown University of Pennsylvania · Kutztown, PA | $47,221 | $21,331 | $15,957 | 90.8% |
|  | [Kutztown University of Pennsylvania](/school/kutztown-university-of-pennsylvania/majors/) reports a [six-year completion rate of 54%](/school/kutztown-university-of-pennsylvania/outcomes/) and an average net price of $21,331, ranking 93rd on this list. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (51 graduates), Public Administration (6 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($47,221) |
| 94 | Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania · Slippery Rock, PA | $46,974 | $19,608 | $12,555 | 71.5% |
|  | Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania posts median earnings of $46,974 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, with a six-year completion rate of 66%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (43 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($46,974) |
| 95 | Eastern University · Saint Davids, PA | $46,324 | $26,662 | $26,557 | 90.8% |
|  | With an admission rate of 91%, Eastern University reports median earnings of $46,324 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (13 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($46,324) |
| 96 | Cairn University-Langhorne · Langhorne, PA | $45,729 | $27,642 | $24,029 | 88.2% |
|  | Cairn University-Langhorne ranks 1421st on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and shows an average net price of $27,642. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (16 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($45,729) |
| 97 | Pennsylvania Western University · California, PA | $45,436 | $18,256 | $13,944 | 94.3% |
|  | [Pennsylvania Western University](/school/pennsylvania-western-university/majors/), a public university in California, reports [median earnings of $45,436](/school/pennsylvania-western-university/outcomes/) for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $18,256. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (54 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($45,436) |
| 98 | Roberts Wesleyan University · Rochester, NY | $44,863 | $23,130 | $22,922 | 70.6% |
|  | Roberts Wesleyan University admits 71% of applicants and shows a six-year completion rate of 67%, with its Public Administration graduates earning a median of $44,863 four years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (26 graduates) |
| 99 | Geneva College · Beaver Falls, PA | $41,383 | $25,890 | $20,283 | Not reported |
|  | Geneva College reports median earnings of $41,383 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $20,283 for families earning under $30,000. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (7 graduates) |
| 100 | Lancaster Bible College · Lancaster, PA | No published median | $25,480 | $24,486 | 55.9% |
|  | Lancaster Bible College ranks 100th on this list and posts a six-year completion rate of 67% alongside an admission rate of 56%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (11 graduates), Social Work (11 graduates) |
| 101 | University of Bridgeport · Bridgeport, CT | $37,088 | $27,807 | $27,238 | 83.0% |
|  | University of Bridgeport reports median earnings of $37,088 for its Public Administration graduates two years after completing and an average net price of $27,807. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (29 graduates) |
| 102 | Cedar Crest College · Allentown, PA | $33,565 | $18,659 | $21,044 | 84.1% |
|  | With a six-year completion rate of 60%, Cedar Crest College lists median earnings of $33,565 for its Public Administration graduates two years after completing. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (10 graduates) |
| 103 | Salve Regina University · Newport, RI | $33,281 | $36,967 | $26,939 | 68.2% |
|  | Salve Regina University admits 68% of applicants and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $33,281 two years after completing, while the college reports an average net price of $36,967. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (9 graduates) |
| 104 | West Chester University of Pennsylvania · West Chester, PA | $32,391 | $23,331 | $17,018 | 78.4% |
|  | [West Chester University of Pennsylvania](/school/west-chester-university-of-pennsylvania/majors/), a public university in West Chester, reports [median earnings of $32,391](/school/west-chester-university-of-pennsylvania/outcomes/) for its Public Administration graduates two years after completing and a six-year completion rate of 71%. |
|  | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (61 graduates) |

\* Net price can be negative: when grants and scholarships exceed the listed cost of attendance, students can receive the difference as a refund for other expenses.

## How this list is ordered

Schools are ordered by the median earnings of their Public Administration graduates four years after completing, highest first. Only schools with a reported Public Administration earnings cohort in the Northeast appear. The figure reflects federally aided completers who were working and not enrolled four years after completing the program. For 5 of the 104 listed programs the figure is the two-year completion median rather than the four-year one. The metric does not adjust for graduate school enrollment, cost, or who enrolls, and it is not a measure of teaching quality. The range and median below cover the 100 schools with a published figure. Cornell University leads at $126,767, a gap of $18,975 above Princeton University at $107,792.

## Related rankings

-   [Public Administration Colleges in the United States](/rankings/best-public-administration-colleges/)
-   [Best Colleges in the Northeast](/rankings/best-colleges-in-the-northeast/)
-   [Best Public Administration Colleges in the Midwest](/rankings/best-public-administration-colleges-in-the-midwest/)
-   [Best Public Administration Colleges in the South](/rankings/best-public-administration-colleges-in-the-south/)
-   [Best Public Administration Colleges in the West](/rankings/best-public-administration-colleges-in-the-west/)
-   [Best Social Work Colleges in the Midwest](/rankings/best-social-work-colleges-in-the-midwest/)
-   Public Administration Colleges in the Northeast for Social Mobility
-   [Best Social Work Colleges for Social Mobility in the Northeast](/rankings/best-social-work-colleges-for-social-mobility-in-the-northeast/)