CUNY Kingsborough Community College

Based on its ROI score of 103 and affordability score of 90, CUNY Kingsborough Community College appears to be a worthwhile investment, especially for in-state students, offering a debt-to-earnings ratio that is favorable.

Graduates of CUNY Kingsborough Community College can expect median earnings of $42,621 ten years after entry, with a median debt of $7,100 at graduation.

The graduation rate at CUNY Kingsborough Community College is 25.4%, which is on the lower side and may indicate challenges in student retention or completion within the typical timeframe.

With an affordability score of 90, CUNY Kingsborough Community College is highly accessible, offering a low in-state tuition of $5,252.

As a medium-sized public institution in Brooklyn, CUNY Kingsborough Community College offers a diverse urban campus experience with a significant population of Black and Hispanic students.

CUNY Kingsborough Community College, like other CUNY community colleges, has an open admissions policy, meaning it is generally accessible to all high school graduates or GED recipients. While a specific 'acceptance rate' isn't published in the traditional sense, the focus is on ensuring all eligible New Yorkers have an opportunity for higher education. Admission is typically based on meeting basic academic requirements, such as a high school diploma or GED, and potentially placement testing in English and Mathematics to determine appropriate course levels. For students who may not meet standard requirements, CUNY offers preparatory courses and resources to help them succeed. The key is demonstrating a commitment to completing high school or its equivalent. Prospective students should visit the CUNY Admissions website and the Kingsborough Admissions page for the most current application deadlines, required documentation (like transcripts), and information on placement testing. The process is designed to be inclusive, prioritizing access over strict selectivity, making it a viable option for a broad range of students.

Yes, CUNY Kingsborough Community College is generally considered worth the money, particularly for New York State residents. The in-state tuition is remarkably low at $5,252 per year, making a two-year associate degree cost approximately $10,504 in tuition. With a median debt of only $7,100, graduates are not burdened by significant loans. The median earnings 10 years after enrollment are $42,621. This means that, on average, graduates earn back the cost of their education within the first year or two of employment, and the total debt can be paid off relatively quickly. The ROI score of 103 further supports its value, indicating a strong return on investment. Kingsborough serves as an excellent pathway to a four-year CUNY degree or directly into the workforce in fields like healthcare, business, and technology, where demand is consistent in the NYC area. For students seeking an affordable, debt-conscious education that leads to tangible career outcomes or further academic pursuits, Kingsborough is a financially prudent choice.

CUNY Kingsborough Community College excels in offering programs that lead directly to in-demand careers or provide a strong foundation for transfer to four-year institutions. Some of the best majors are found within its robust Health Sciences division, including programs like Nursing (Associate Degree in Nursing - ADN), Radiologic Technology, and Medical Assisting, which prepare students for critical roles in New York City's vast healthcare sector. The Business and Public Administration department offers strong programs in areas such as Accounting, Business Administration, and Marketing, equipping graduates for roles in the city's financial and commercial hubs. Additionally, the Early Childhood Education program is highly regarded, feeding into the significant need for educators in NYC. For students interested in technology, programs in Computer Information Systems provide foundational skills for IT support and related roles. These programs are often chosen because they align with strong job market demand in the NYC metropolitan area and offer clear pathways for either immediate employment or seamless transfer to CUNY senior colleges like Brooklyn College or Baruch College.

Student life at CUNY Kingsborough Community College offers a dynamic urban college experience within a vibrant Brooklyn setting. While it's a community college primarily focused on academics and career preparation, KBCC provides a range of extracurricular activities and support services to enrich the student experience. The campus features numerous student clubs and organizations catering to diverse interests, from academic societies and cultural groups to athletic teams (often competing in NJCAA) and student government. The college hosts various events throughout the year, including cultural performances, guest lectures, and social gatherings, leveraging its proximity to the cultural richness of New York City. Student support services are a cornerstone, with resources like tutoring centers, counseling services, and career development assistance readily available. The campus itself, located near the waterfront with views of Manhattan, offers a unique and inspiring environment. While it may not have the extensive residential life of a traditional four-year university, KBCC fosters a strong sense of community among its commuter student population, encouraging engagement through its facilities and programming.

CUNY Kingsborough Community College provides significant financial aid to eligible students, making higher education more accessible. The primary forms of aid include federal grants (like the Pell Grant), state grants (such as the New York State Tuition Assistance Program - TAP), and institutional scholarships. For the 2022-2023 academic year, approximately 75% of full-time undergraduate students received some form of financial aid. The average amount of grant or scholarship aid awarded was around $6,000-$7,000 per student, significantly offsetting the low tuition costs. Federal student loans are also available, though KBCC emphasizes minimizing student debt, reflected in its low median debt figure of $7,100. Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the New York State Dream Act application (if applicable) to determine their eligibility for grants, scholarships, and loans. The Financial Aid Office at Kingsborough is a crucial resource, offering guidance on application processes, aid types, and maintaining eligibility throughout a student's academic journey.

The salary expectations after graduating from CUNY Kingsborough Community College vary significantly based on the chosen major, the specific job secured, and the employer. However, the college's median earnings 10 years after enrollment are reported at $42,621. Graduates from career-focused programs often enter the workforce in roles such as registered nurses (ADN graduates), medical assistants, paralegals, administrative assistants, early childhood educators, and IT support specialists. Entry-level salaries for these positions in the competitive New York City market can range from approximately $35,000 to $55,000 annually. For instance, an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) graduate might start around $50,000-$60,000, while an administrative assistant might begin closer to $35,000-$45,000. Students who transfer to CUNY senior colleges to complete a bachelor's degree can expect higher earning potential in the long term. It's crucial to note that these figures represent median earnings and individual outcomes depend on internships, networking, and career choices within the vast NYC job market.

CUNY Kingsborough Community College does not offer traditional on-campus housing or dormitories. As a primarily commuter institution located in Brooklyn, the vast majority of its students live off-campus in surrounding neighborhoods or commute from other parts of New York City and its suburbs. This is a common characteristic of many CUNY community colleges, which focus on providing accessible education within the urban environment rather than extensive residential facilities. Students seeking housing would need to find private apartments or rooms in the Brooklyn area or other locations accessible via public transportation. The college does provide resources through its student affairs or housing assistance contacts that might offer guidance on navigating the off-campus housing market in NYC, but it does not manage or provide dormitory-style living arrangements. This lack of on-campus housing is a key differentiator compared to state universities or private colleges that offer a more traditional residential campus experience.

CUNY Kingsborough Community College, as a community college, is not primarily focused on extensive faculty-led research in the same vein as a major research university. Its core mission centers on providing accessible associate degrees, certificates, and pathways for transfer to four-year institutions. However, this does not mean research opportunities are entirely absent. Students in certain science programs, particularly those within the Mathematics, Natural Sciences, and Technology department, may have opportunities to engage in faculty-supervised projects or research-related coursework. These experiences are often designed to build foundational research skills and prepare students for more advanced research opportunities at senior CUNY colleges or other universities. Kingsborough also participates in initiatives that may involve undergraduate research components, often in collaboration with other CUNY campuses. While it may not be a primary destination for aspiring research scientists at the undergraduate level, students interested in gaining initial exposure to research methodologies can find relevant, albeit limited, opportunities through dedicated faculty and specific program structures.

CUNY Kingsborough Community College (KBCC) compares favorably to other CUNY community colleges like Queensborough CC, LaGuardia CC, and Bronx CC, as well as other community colleges in the broader New York metropolitan area. Its primary advantage lies in its specific location within Brooklyn, offering direct access to that borough's unique job market and community resources. Like its CUNY peers, KBCC offers highly affordable tuition for New York residents and a strong emphasis on career preparation and transfer pathways within the CUNY system. Compared to suburban county colleges (e.g., in Nassau or Suffolk), KBCC provides more direct access to the dense urban job market of NYC. However, some suburban colleges might offer more traditional campus experiences with greater residential options. A key differentiator for KBCC is its specific program strengths, such as its Health Sciences and Business programs, which are tailored to meet the demands of the NYC economy. While all CUNY community colleges share a common mission, KBCC's distinct Brooklyn location and program focus position it as a strong choice for students targeting careers within that specific borough and the wider city.

Employers in the New York City metropolitan area generally view degrees and certificates from CUNY Kingsborough Community College positively, particularly for roles aligned with the college's program strengths. As part of the larger CUNY system, Kingsborough benefits from the system's reputation for providing accessible, quality education to New Yorkers. Employers recognize that KBCC graduates are often well-prepared for entry-level positions in fields such as healthcare (nursing, medical assisting), business (accounting, administration), public service, and early childhood education. The college's focus on practical skills and career readiness means graduates are often equipped with the specific competencies employers seek. For roles requiring a bachelor's degree, employers understand that KBCC serves as a strong foundation, with many graduates successfully transferring to CUNY senior colleges and then entering the workforce with a four-year degree. The perception is that KBCC provides a solid, affordable education that produces capable, job-ready individuals, especially within the diverse industries concentrated in and around Brooklyn and Manhattan.