State University of New York at Plattsburgh
State University of New York at Plattsburgh is a public university in Plattsburgh, NY ranked #1354 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of B-, enrolling about 3,769 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 78.4%. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Management Information Systems and Services.
Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 15:1 student-faculty ratio, 73.2% first-year retention, and 58.5% six-year graduation. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.
Families typically invest $17,156, about $158 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -29.9%, roughly 115.2 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $48,089. That's about $4,401 higher than national results. Expect the strongest outcomes for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
State University of New York at Plattsburgh has an acceptance rate of 78.4%, annual tuition of $9,035, average net price of $17,156, and a national rank of #1354 (Grade B-), with a 58.5% six-year graduation rate, about 3,769 undergraduates, and median earnings of $48,089 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Who is State University of New York at Plattsburgh Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
State University of New York at Plattsburgh graduates 58.5% of students within six years and keeps 73.2% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use State University of New York at Plattsburgh's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $9,035 |
| Books and Supplies | $930 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $17,300 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $2,732 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $28,244 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 40.6% of State University of New York at Plattsburgh students receive Pell Grants — in line with the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $9,400 to $24,611 depending on family income. Use State University of New York at Plattsburgh's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $17,655/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $24,611/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $48,089
- 10-Year Median Earnings $48,089
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $15,000
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 63.5%
- Employment Rate 44.6%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for State University of New York at Plattsburgh graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
State University of New York at Plattsburgh vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how State University of New York at Plattsburgh's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes State University of New York at Plattsburgh's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While State University of New York at Plattsburgh graduates earn $48,089 median, the -29.9% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 540-640
- SAT Math 540-610
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 22-28
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 3,769
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 73.2%
- Graduation Rate 58.5%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 15:1
How to Get Into State University of New York at Plattsburgh
1. Meet Academic Requirements: State University of New York at Plattsburgh requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 78.4%, State University of New York at Plattsburgh is relatively open. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: With a 78.4% acceptance rate, State University of New York at Plattsburgh is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1080 and 1250 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among State University of New York at Plattsburgh undergraduates. Business Administration, Management and Operations, Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing, and Psychology, General draw the most students.
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 12.5%
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 7.5%
- Psychology, General 6.7%
- Accounting and Related Services 6.1%
- Criminal Justice and Corrections 5.7%
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication 5.5%
See more majors
- Biology, General 4.4%
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research 3.2%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $93,348
- 2. Management Information Systems and Services $74,458
- 3. Finance and Financial Management Services $71,066
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other $71,034
- 5. Biology, General $69,973
- 6. Economics $66,521
- 7. Business Administration, Management and Operations $65,181
- 8. Natural Resources Conservation and Research $64,446
- 9. Marketing $62,979
- 10. General Sales, Merchandising and Related Marketing Operations $62,258
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Educational Administration and Supervision (Graduate/Professional Certificate) $88,908
- 2. Communication Disorders Sciences and Services (Master's Degree) $61,781
- 3. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Master's Degree) $60,181
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Special Education and Teaching (Master's Degree) $58,561
- 5. Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General (Master's Degree) $45,923
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $93,348—50% more than General Sales, Merchandising and Related Marketing Operations ($62,258). Graduate: Educational Administration and Supervision programs lead with $88,908 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for State University of New York at Plattsburgh. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degree, 174 graduates)
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 93 graduates)
- Criminal Justice and Corrections (Bachelor's Degree, 80 graduates)
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication (Bachelor's Degree, 77 graduates)
- Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 62 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (49 programs)â–¼
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Psychology, General
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Biology, General
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Marketing
- Computer Science
- Social Work
- Fine and Studio Arts
- English Language and Literature, General
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Journalism
- Hospitality Administration/Management
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- History
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Political Science and Government
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
- Economics
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Management Information Systems and Services
- International Business
- Communication and Media Studies
- Anthropology
- Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services
- Sociology
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Music
- Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Physics
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Area Studies
- Security Science and Technology
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Chemistry
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Philosophy
- Mathematics
- Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management
- Non-Professional General Legal Studies (Undergraduate)
Online Master's Degrees (12 programs)â–¼
- Special Education and Teaching
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Natural Sciences
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (3 programs)â–¼
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (8 programs)â–¼
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Medical Illustration and Informatics
- Journalism
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 3,769
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 40.4%
- Female Students 59.6%
- Caucasian 62.6%
- Asian 2.5%
- Hispanic 13.7%
- Black 11.7%
- Pell Grant Recipients 40.6%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects State University of New York at Plattsburgh's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of State University of New York at Plattsburgh's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does State University of New York at Plattsburgh support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at State University of New York at Plattsburgh, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does State University of New York at Plattsburgh support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at State University of New York at Plattsburgh, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
State University of New York at Plattsburgh serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #1354 nationally with ROI data not available, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.
At $17,156 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $48,089 median earnings. The 58.5% six-year graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 73.2% retention suggests adequate student support.
University Value: State University of New York at Plattsburgh's Strengths
Ranked #1354 with a B- grade, State University of New York at Plattsburgh prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.
Primary Strengths: Universitys like State University of New York at Plattsburgh excel at providing affordable education ($17,156 annually) with strong local employer relationships. Many programs emphasize practical skills and internships within the regional economy.
Best For: Students planning to work in the region after graduation benefit from established employer connections. Adult learners and part-time students appreciate flexible scheduling. First-generation students and budget-conscious families gain degrees without overwhelming debt.
Honest Assessment: State University of New York at Plattsburgh's 73.2% retention and 58.5% six-year graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($48,089 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.
Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, State University of New York at Plattsburgh and $17,156 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.
Key Takeaways
- 58.5% six-year graduation rate sits 4.0 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 73.2% first-year retention is 3.6 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
- -29.9% return on investment is 115.2 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $48,089 run about 10% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $17,156 is roughly $241 lower than the national median of $17,397.
Helpfulness for Students
- 15:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 73.2% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 44.6% employment rate within three years sits 23.6 points below national outcomes.
- Budget carefully for clinical travel, off-campus housing, and practicum fees to avoid surprise costs.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
State University of New York at Plattsburgh is a public university based in Plattsburgh, NY and earns a B- overall grade. It stands at #1354 among 6101 schools Grades by category break down as Completion B, Support B-, Career Outcomes C, and Affordability B.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
Student momentum is strong: 73.2% retention and 58.5% six-year graduation. EDsmart calculates the ROI at -29.9%, offering a quick value checkpoint.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $17,156 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $28,244.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $11,088 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $15,000 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 40.6% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Graduates report median earnings of about $48,089 six years after entry. That sits about 10% above the national median.
The three-year employment rate is close to 44.6%.
EDsmart lists the ROI at -29.9%, offering a quick read on value.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
78.4% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the State University of New York at Plattsburgh admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is State University of New York at Plattsburgh's acceptance rate?
State University of New York at Plattsburgh's acceptance rate is 78.4%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does State University of New York at Plattsburgh cost?
At State University of New York at Plattsburgh, listed tuition and fees are $9,035 per year, and the average net price after aid is $17,156. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is State University of New York at Plattsburgh's ranking?
State University of New York at Plattsburgh ranks #1354 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of B-, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is State University of New York at Plattsburgh's graduation rate?
At State University of New York at Plattsburgh, the six-year graduation rate is 58.5%, and first-year retention is 73.2%.
What are State University of New York at Plattsburgh's job outcomes?
Graduates of State University of New York at Plattsburgh report median earnings of $48,089 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is State University of New York at Plattsburgh's student population?
State University of New York at Plattsburgh enrolls about 3,769 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address Plattsburgh, NY 12901-2681
- Website www.plattsburgh.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationMiddle States Commission on Higher Education (MSACHE)
- Endowment$27.3M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate28.2%