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CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY 10010 — Public

Value Score: 85/100 | ROI Score: 154 | Affordability Score: 90/100

Tuition (In-State): $7,464 | Out-of-State: $15,414

Acceptance Rate: 47.5% | Graduation Rate: 72.1% | Retention Rate: 88.6%

Median Earnings (10yr): $75,971 | Median Debt: $11,512

SAT Average: 1280

Student Body Size: 16,154 (large)

Pell Grant Recipients: 56.9% | Federal Loan Rate: 11.1%

Average Faculty Salary: $12,558/month

Tuition & Affordability Analysis

In-state tuition at CUNY Bernard M Baruch College is $7,464 per year, which is 32% below the national average for public institutions.

Out-of-state students pay $15,414/year — a premium of $7,950 over in-state rates. Over four years, out-of-state students pay approximately $31,800 more than their in-state peers.

Estimated four-year tuition cost: $29,856 (tuition only, not including room, board, and fees).

What You Actually Pay: Net Price by Family Income

The sticker price rarely reflects what families actually pay. After grants and scholarships, here is the average net price by family income bracket at CUNY Bernard M Baruch College:

  • Families earning $0–$30,000: $607/year
  • Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $2,052/year
  • Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $6,312/year
  • Families earning $75,001–$110,000: $8,623/year
  • Families earning $110,000+: $12,314/year

Low-income families receive an average discount of $6,857/year, paying just 8% of the sticker price.

Admissions Snapshot

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College has an acceptance rate of 47.5%, placing it in the Selective (35–50%) category. This means roughly 8,499 students apply each year.

The average SAT score of admitted students is 1280, 21% above the national average. This reflects a strong academic student body.

Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment

72.1% of students at CUNY Bernard M Baruch College complete their degree, 16% above the national average. This is a solid graduation rate.

First-year retention rate: 88.6% (9% above the national average). This indicates most students are satisfied enough to return for sophomore year.

Graduates of CUNY Bernard M Baruch College earn a median salary of $75,971 ten years after enrollment, 86% above the national average. This represents a $40,971/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $1,229,130 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.

The median student debt at graduation is $11,512, 46% below the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $125/month, with a total repayment of $15,000 (including $3,488 in interest).

Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.15x. This is an excellent ratio — graduates carry manageable debt relative to their earning power.

Breakeven Point: Based on the earnings premium over high school graduates, a degree from CUNY Bernard M Baruch College pays for itself in approximately 1 years. This is an excellent return on investment.

Financial Aid Profile

56.9% of students at CUNY Bernard M Baruch College receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 72% above the national average. This high Pell rate indicates the school serves a large proportion of lower-income students and likely has strong need-based aid programs.

11.1% of students take federal loans, 76% below the national average. A low loan rate suggests strong institutional aid or a wealthier student body that doesn't need to borrow.

Average faculty salary: $12,558/month, 44% above the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.

Student Body & Campus Diversity

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College enrolls 16,154 undergraduate students. As a major university, CUNY Bernard M Baruch College offers extensive resources, hundreds of student organizations, Division I athletics, and a vast alumni network.

Diversity Index: 75/100 (higher = more diverse). CUNY Bernard M Baruch College has a highly diverse student body with strong representation across multiple racial and ethnic groups.

Student body composition: White 18%, Hispanic 29%, Black 9%, Asian 35%.

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College: Strong Graduation and Career Outcomes with Manageable Debt

Report Card: Overall Grade B+

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College receives an overall grade of B+ based on six dimensions:

  • Academics: B
  • Value: A
  • Outcomes: B+
  • Affordability: B+

College Analysis

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College is a Public institution in New York, NY with approximately 16,154 students. Academics: Strong graduation rate of 72.11%. Value: High median earnings of $75,971 after 10 years, indicating good career outcomes. Outcomes: Median debt of $11,512 is relatively low compared to tuition costs.

The Verdict: Is CUNY Bernard M Baruch College Worth It?

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College presents an exceptional value proposition, especially for New York State residents. With a median 10-year earning potential of $75,971 and a remarkably low median debt of $11,512, the return on investment is outstanding. The in-state tuition of $7,464 per year is a fraction of what many private institutions charge, making the debt accumulation significantly lower. A rough calculation suggests that a graduate earning the median salary could pay off their median debt within 2-3 months of consistent saving, assuming a reasonable cost of living. The ROI score of 154 further solidifies its position as a high-value institution. For out-of-state students, the value proposition diminishes due to higher tuition, but it can still be competitive when compared to other urban public universities. Baruch is not just a good deal; it's a hidden gem for those seeking a strong business education with excellent career outcomes without the burden of crippling student debt. It's a clear recommendation for aspiring professionals looking for a direct path to lucrative careers in finance and business.

Return on Investment

The degree is worth the cost given the strong career outcomes and relatively low debt levels.

Debt Reality Check

Median student debt at CUNY Bernard M Baruch College: $11,512. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $131/month. Total repaid: $15,720 ($4,208 in interest).

Breakeven vs high school diploma: 0.3 years. Debt burden: Low. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $15,720.

Strengths

  • Strong academic programs and high graduation rates.
  • High median earnings post-graduation.

Weaknesses

  • Higher in-state tuition compared to some peer institutions.
  • Moderate debt levels for students.

Academic Profile

SAT Average: 1280. Retention Rate: 88.6%.

Baruch College is renowned for its strong business programs, particularly within the Zicklin School of Business, which consistently ranks among the top undergraduate business schools. Programs like Accountancy, Finance, and Marketing are highly sought after, preparing students for immediate entry into the competitive New York City financial and corporate sectors. The Weissman School of Arts and Sciences offers robust majors in fields such as Economics, Political Science, and English, providing a solid liberal arts foundation that complements business studies. The Marxe School of Public and International Affairs is another significant draw, offering excellent programs in public administration and international affairs. With a student-faculty ratio that, while not explicitly provided, is generally manageable in a public urban institution, students can expect accessible faculty, many of whom are active practitioners in their fields, bringing real-world insights into the classroom. Research opportunities are available, especially for upperclassmen, often tied to faculty projects or departmental initiatives. The Baruch Honors Program offers enriched academic experiences, smaller class sizes, and priority registration for high-achieving students. Academic support is robust, with the Academic Success Center providing tutoring, writing assistance, and academic advising. Study abroad programs, though perhaps less emphasized than at residential campuses, are available and offer valuable global perspectives. The pragmatic, career-oriented focus is evident across all disciplines, with a strong emphasis on internships and experiential learning.

Financial Aid Guide for CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

Pell Grant recipients: 56.9%. Students taking federal loans: 11.1%.

As a CUNY institution, Baruch College offers a highly accessible and affordable education, particularly for New York State residents. For the 2023-2024 academic year, in-state tuition stands at $7,464, while out-of-state tuition is $15,414. Financial aid is a critical component for many Baruch students. The primary source of aid is need-based grants, largely through federal programs like the Pell Grant and New York State's Tuition Assistance Program (TAP). While merit scholarships exist, they are generally less prevalent and often smaller in scale compared to private institutions, with the focus being on need-based support. Work-study opportunities are available, allowing students to earn money through part-time campus jobs. Typical aid packages for lower-income families (e.g., under $40,000 annual income) can significantly reduce or even cover tuition and fees through a combination of federal grants, state aid, and CUNY-specific waivers. For middle-income families, aid might cover a substantial portion of tuition, but students may need to rely more on federal loans. Scholarship applications, both internal and external, are crucial for supplementing aid. Students should actively seek out scholarships from professional organizations related to their major (e.g., accounting, finance) and explore the Baruch College Scholarship portal. Negotiating financial aid is generally not a strong suit at public universities like Baruch; aid is typically awarded based on established formulas and available funding. Focus on maximizing your FAFSA and TAP applications and diligently applying for external scholarships.

Hidden Costs at CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

  • Student Activity Fee: Approximately $150-$200 per semester, supporting student organizations and campus events.
  • Technology Fee: Around $125-$150 per semester, contributing to the college's IT infrastructure and resources.
  • Textbooks and Course Materials: Can range from $800 to $1,500 per academic year, depending on the courses and whether new or used books are purchased.
  • Transportation: For students not living in the immediate vicinity, monthly MetroCards for unlimited subway and bus travel can cost around $132.
  • Housing (if applicable): While Baruch doesn't have extensive on-campus housing, off-campus options in NYC can range from $1,200 to $2,500+ per month for a shared apartment.
  • Meal Plans (optional): While not mandatory for all, meal plans or daily food expenses can add $300-$600 per month.
  • Health Insurance: If not covered by a parent's plan, the student health insurance plan can cost approximately $2,000-$3,000 annually.

Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths

Graduates from CUNY Bernard M Baruch College are strategically positioned for success, particularly within the vibrant New York City metropolitan area. The college's strong emphasis on business, finance, and public affairs means alumni are highly sought after by major financial institutions, accounting firms, and consulting companies. Prominent employers that frequently recruit Baruch graduates include Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG, JPMorgan Chase, Morgan Stanley, and Citigroup. The primary industries where alumni cluster are finance, accounting, marketing, public relations, and technology. Baruch also boasts a solid placement rate for graduate studies, with alumni pursuing advanced degrees at top-tier business schools and law programs. Notable alumni include figures like Steven M. Glickman (CEO of Glickman Media), and numerous executives and leaders across various sectors. The Zicklin School of Business, in particular, is well-regarded, contributing to a strong employer perception. Career services at Baruch are robust, offering extensive networking events, career counseling, and resume workshops, facilitating strong internship pipelines with companies across Wall Street and Midtown Manhattan. Geographic hiring patterns heavily favor the New York City area, though graduates also find opportunities in major financial centers like Boston, Washington D.C., and increasingly, in tech hubs on the West Coast.

Campus Life & Culture at CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

Baruch College serves a highly diverse student body, with a significant percentage of students identifying as first-generation and from minority backgrounds, reflecting the vibrant multicultural landscape of New York City. The student population is largely comprised of commuters, with many students working part-time or full-time jobs while pursuing their degrees. The student who thrives at Baruch is ambitious, self-motivated, and eager to leverage the college's urban location and strong academic programs for career advancement.

Baruch College, nestled in the heart of Manhattan's Gramercy and Flatiron districts, offers a distinctly urban campus experience. Forget sprawling quads; think dynamic city blocks. The 'campus' is integrated into the vibrant New York City landscape, meaning students often find their social life extending beyond the college walls into the endless opportunities the city provides. While there isn't traditional on-campus housing for all undergraduates, Baruch offers residence halls through partnerships, providing a crucial anchor for students seeking a more traditional college living experience amidst the city bustle. The Zicklin School of Business, Weissman School of Arts and Sciences, and Marxe School of Public and International Affairs are the academic powerhouses, and student life often revolves around these centers. With over 200 student organizations, from the Baruch Investment Club to the Bollywood Dance Troupe, there's a niche for everyone. The Student Government Association is a strong presence, advocating for student needs. Athletics are Division III, with a focus on club sports and intramurals that offer a chance to de-stress and connect with peers. The vibe is ambitious, driven, and pragmatic – students are here to learn, network, and leverage their Baruch education for future success in the competitive NYC job market. Expect a diverse student body, reflecting the city's global character, with a strong emphasis on academic achievement and career preparation. The campus itself, centered around the Vertical Campus building, is a hub of activity, with bustling cafeterias, study lounges, and student service centers.

Campus Highlights

  • Prime Manhattan Location: Situated in the heart of Gramercy/Flatiron, offering unparalleled access to internships, cultural events, and the city's energy.
  • Zicklin School of Business Reputation: Consistently ranked among the top undergraduate business programs nationally.
  • Diverse and Ambitious Student Body: A reflection of New York City's global population, attracting driven individuals focused on career success.
  • Strong Alumni Network: A powerful resource for career development and networking, especially within the NYC metropolitan area.
  • Vertical Campus Design: A unique, modern architectural hub that efficiently houses academic and student facilities.
  • Emphasis on Experiential Learning: Numerous opportunities for internships, co-ops, and real-world projects integrated into the curriculum.
  • Affordability and Value: As a CUNY institution, it provides a high-quality education at a significantly lower cost than many private counterparts.

Location & Regional Advantages

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College's location in the heart of New York City is arguably its most significant asset. Situated in Gramercy, Manhattan, students are immersed in the epicenter of global finance, media, and business. This proximity provides unparalleled access to internships and job opportunities with thousands of companies, from multinational corporations headquartered nearby to burgeoning startups. The local job market is dynamic and diverse, offering a vast array of entry-level positions across numerous sectors. While New York City's cost of living is notoriously high, the in-state tuition for Baruch offers a significant advantage, making it a more accessible option compared to private institutions in the city. The proximity to industry hubs like Wall Street, Silicon Alley (NYC's tech sector), and Madison Avenue is a direct pipeline to career advancement. Quality of life in NYC is a mixed bag; it offers world-class culture, dining, and entertainment, but also presents challenges like a fast-paced environment and crowded conditions. Weather is typical of the Northeast, with four distinct seasons. Safety is a concern in any large urban environment, but Baruch's campus is generally considered safe, and the surrounding neighborhoods are well-trafficked. The location directly impacts career opportunities by placing students within arm's reach of decision-makers and recruiters, fostering a competitive yet rewarding professional landscape.

How to Get Into CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

Baruch College, with an admission rate around 47.5%, is selective, particularly for its highly regarded business programs. While there are no Early Decision or Early Action options, demonstrating strong academic performance is paramount. The admissions committee heavily weighs GPA, with successful applicants typically having a GPA of 3.5 or higher. While SAT/ACT scores are not required for the current application cycle, when they were considered, competitive scores were generally in the mid-to-high 1200s for the SAT. For essays, focus on showcasing your ambition, resilience, and how Baruch's specific programs align with your career goals. Highlight any experiences that demonstrate leadership, problem-solving skills, or a commitment to your chosen field. Given its urban setting and career focus, admissions officers look for students who are motivated, independent, and eager to take advantage of the opportunities NYC and Baruch offer. Demonstrated interest isn't formally tracked, but attending virtual or in-person information sessions and engaging with admissions materials shows genuine enthusiasm. The application timeline typically opens in late August/early September for fall admission, with priority deadlines often in January or February. Aim to submit your application well before the final deadline to ensure full consideration.

How CUNY Bernard M Baruch College Compares to Similar Schools

Similar schools: Fordham University, Pace University, St. John's University, Hofstra University

Advantages

  • Significantly lower tuition, especially for in-state students, leading to much lower student debt.
  • Stronger brand recognition and recruitment pipelines within the core finance and accounting sectors of NYC.
  • Greater access to a diverse student body and a more urban, integrated campus experience.

Disadvantages

  • Less of a traditional, self-contained campus feel compared to some private peers.
  • Potentially fewer resources or amenities compared to larger, more affluent private universities.

Best For

  • Best for students interested in business and finance programs.
  • Ideal for students who prefer a public university with strong community college connections.

Avoid If

  • Avoid if you are looking for a highly selective institution with a very low admission rate.
  • Not recommended for students who prioritize high out-of-state tuition rates.

Frequently Asked Questions about CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

How much does it cost to attend CUNY Bernard M Baruch College?

In-state tuition at CUNY Bernard M Baruch College is $7,464 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $15,414 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $11,512.

What is the acceptance rate at CUNY Bernard M Baruch College?

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College has an acceptance rate of 47.5%.

What is the graduation rate at CUNY Bernard M Baruch College?

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College has a graduation rate of 72.1%.

How much do CUNY Bernard M Baruch College graduates earn?

The median earnings for CUNY Bernard M Baruch College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $75,971. With median debt of $11,512, graduates earn roughly 6.6x their debt level annually.

How big is CUNY Bernard M Baruch College?

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College has approximately 16,154 students and is classified as a large institution. It is located in New York, NY and is a Public institution.

Is CUNY Bernard M Baruch College worth the cost?

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College has an ROI score of 154 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $7,464 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $75,971, the data suggests a positive return on investment.

Where is CUNY Bernard M Baruch College located?

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College is located in New York, NY. It is a Public institution with approximately 16,154 students.

How much student debt do CUNY Bernard M Baruch College graduates have?

The median student debt for CUNY Bernard M Baruch College graduates is $11,512. With median earnings of $75,971 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 15%.

Is CUNY Bernard M Baruch College a good college?

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College has a graduation rate of 72.1% and median post-graduation earnings of $75,971. High in-state tuition of $7,464 compared to low out-of-state tuition of $15,414.

How does CUNY Bernard M Baruch College compare to similar colleges?

Asian students make up the largest demographic at 35.34%. Compared to peer institutions, CUNY Bernard M Baruch College offers strong academic and career outcomes with relatively low debt.

What career prospects do CUNY Bernard M Baruch College graduates have?

Graduates are well-positioned for careers in finance, business, and technology sectors.

What should prospective students know about CUNY Bernard M Baruch College?

Located in New York City, the college provides excellent networking and job opportunities.

What makes CUNY Bernard M Baruch College stand out?

Graduation rate is above the national average for public universities.

What are the pros and cons of attending CUNY Bernard M Baruch College?

Median earnings 10 years post-graduation are significantly higher than tuition costs.

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Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.