State University of New York at Cortland: Is It Worth It?

Graduate earnings, costs, and ROI analysis with federal data

By Appffeine Research Team · Updated February 11, 2026

Overview

State University of New York at Cortland is located in Cortland, NY. This comprehensive ROI analysis uses federal IRS W-2 earnings data to help you understand what graduates from State University of New York at Cortland actually earn.

Data last updated: February 11, 2026

| Key Metric | Value | |------------|-------| | Median Graduate Earnings | $60,236 | | In-State Tuition | $8,815 | | Out-of-State Tuition | $18,725 | | Acceptance Rate | 50.7% | | Graduation Rate | 68.3% | | Student Population | 5,896 |

Graduate Earnings

According to federal data from IRS W-2 records, the median annual earnings for State University of New York at Cortland graduates is $60,236 measured 10 years after initial enrollment.

This earnings figure represents graduates who received federal financial aid and had W-2 earnings reported to the IRS.

How This Compares

Compare State University of New York at Cortland's graduate earnings to:

  • [Similar schools in NY](/schools/ny)
  • [Schools with similar admission rates](/compare)
  • [National averages by major](/majors)

Cost Breakdown

Understanding the true cost of attending State University of New York at Cortland:

| Cost Component | In-State | Out-of-State | |----------------|----------|--------------| | Tuition & Fees | $8,815 | $18,725 | | Room & Board | $15,210 | $15,210 | | 4-Year Total (Est.) | $96,100 | $135,740 |

Note: Actual costs may vary. Financial aid can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

ROI Analysis

To calculate your personal ROI:

  • Estimate your total cost after financial aid
  • Compare to median earnings of $60,236
  • Consider your specific major (earnings vary significantly)
  • Factor in opportunity costs of 4 years of study
[Calculate Your Personal ROI →](/tools/roi-calculator)

Top Majors at State University of New York at Cortland

The highest-earning majors at State University of New York at Cortland typically include:

  • Engineering and Computer Science programs
  • Business and Finance degrees
  • Healthcare and Nursing programs
[See earnings by major at State University of New York at Cortland →](/school/state-university-of-new-york-at-cortland/majors)

Similar Schools to Consider

Based on size, selectivity, and location, you might also consider:

  • Schools in NY with similar outcomes
  • Institutions with comparable admission rates
  • Universities with strong programs in your intended major
[Compare with similar schools →](/compare)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is State University of New York at Cortland worth the tuition?

With median graduate earnings of $60,236 and an out-of-state 4-year cost of approximately $135,740, the payback period depends on your financial aid package and chosen major.

What percentage of State University of New York at Cortland students graduate?

The graduation rate at State University of New York at Cortland is 68.3%, which is above the national average.

How competitive is admission to State University of New York at Cortland?

State University of New York at Cortland has an acceptance rate of 50.7%.

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This page uses data from the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard API. Earnings data reflects median annual earnings for students who received federal financial aid, measured 10 years after enrollment.