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College of Staten Island CUNY

Staten Island, NY | Public | College

College of Staten Island CUNY has an acceptance rate of 92.3%, annual tuition of $7,490, average net price of $5,579, and a national rank of #1239 (Grade B-), with a 36.8% graduation rate, about 9,657 undergraduates, and median earnings of $65,495 four years after graduation. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.

College of Staten Island CUNY is a public university in Staten Island, NY. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Computer Science.

Day to day, students benefit from a 17:1 student-faculty ratio, and 75.7% first-year retention. Coaches and faculty advisors weave in frequent check-ins, helping students translate ambition into steady progress.

EDsmart calculates return on investment at 268.1%, roughly 218.2 points higher than typical outcomes. It's well-suited to students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore and career-focused learners aiming for high-impact outcomes.

B-
Ranking
#1239 of 1,962
How We Rank Schools Lower tuitionMajor ROI upsidePublic school option
At a Glance
Ranking
#1239 of 1,962 (Top 63.1%)
Tuition
$7,490
Net Price
$5,579
4-Year Tuition
$29,960
Acceptance Rate
92.3%
Transfer Rate
26.8%
Student Population
9,657
Student-Faculty
17:1
Graduation Rate
36.8%
Retention Rate
75.7%
4-Yr Earnings
$65,495
ROI
268.1%

Who is College of Staten Island CUNY Best For?

A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.

Career maximizers chasing high ROI
Families tracking affordability closely
First-gen or Pell-eligible support
Students seeking strong career outcomes
Students valuing supportive learning environments

EDsmart Scores Summary

Overall Ranking
#1239 of 1,962
Top 63.1% of all institutions
EDsmart Score
74.4 / 100 (national index)
Curved score (top institution = 100.0)
Value Rating
3.72 / 5
Based on ROI and outcomes
Completion
D+
#1,418 of 1,962
Affordability
B
#142 of 1,962
Support
B+
#1,041 of 1,962
Career Outcomes
D-
#1,684 of 1,962

College of Staten Island CUNY graduates 36.8% of students within eight years of entry and keeps 75.7% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B compared with similar schools.

How we calculate this →

Cost & Financial Aid

Quick Answers

What does it cost?
Depends on income
$3,903-$13,444 annual net price based on family income.
What's the graduation rate?
Somewhat likely
36.8% earn an award within eight years of entry. 27.5% complete in four years (IPEDS 100% time).
What are job outcomes?
Somewhat likely
42.3% of alumni are employed within three years of leaving. Median earnings four years after graduation are $65,495. Pay varies by major.
Get Your Personalized Cost Estimate

The costs shown are averages. Use College of Staten Island CUNY's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.

Calculate Your Net Price →

Total Degree Cost Summary

4-Year Total Cost (Pay with Cash)
$59,180
$14,795 × 4 years
Average Total Cost (Pay with Financial Aid)
$24,431
$5,579 × 4.4 years average
Time to Degree
Average: 4.4 years | 4-Year Rate: 27.5% | 6-Year Rate: 36.8%
Most students finish in about four to five years. Four-year completion is 27.5% and six-year completion is 36.8%.

Annual Cost Comparison

Pay with Cash
$14,795
Total annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses; excluding any financial aid, grants or scholarships.
Pay with Financial Aid
$5,579
Average annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses after financial aid, grants or scholarships.

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 $7,490
Books and Supplies $1,500
On-Campus Room and Board $21,155
On-Campus Other Expenses $6,216
Total On-Campus Cost $14,795

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

Pell Grant
49.6%
Federal Loan
0.0%

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 49.6% of College of Staten Island CUNY students receive Pell Grants — well above 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.

$0 - $30,000
$3,903
Average annual cost for families earning $0-$30K
$30,001 - $48,000
$4,473
Average annual cost for families earning $30K-$48K
$48,001 - $75,000
$7,364
Average annual cost for families earning $48K-$75K
$75,001 - $110,000
$9,923
Average annual cost for families earning $75K-$110K
$110,001+
$13,444
Average annual cost for families earning $110K+

Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Low-income families pay less than $3,903 annually, while high-income families pay $13,444. Use College of Staten Island CUNY's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.

4-Year Total Cost Estimates:
$0-$30K families
~$17,564
$30K-$48K families
~$20,128
$48K-$75K families
~$33,138
$75K-$110K families
~$44,654
AFFORDABILITY ALERT

If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $9,923/year

If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $13,444/year

See all income brackets →

ROI & Career Outcomes

Return on Investment
268.1%
Based on 6-year median earnings vs. total degree cost
  • Median Earnings (4 Years After Graduation) $65,495
  • 10-Year Median Earnings $53,501
  • Average Years to Graduate 4.4 years
  • Average Student Debt $14,350
  • Repayment Rate (3yr) 49.0%
  • Employment Rate 42.3%

Graduate Earnings Distribution

Earnings range for College of Staten Island CUNY 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.

Graduates earn a median of $65,495 four years after graduation — roughly 8% above the national median.
Payback Period
0.37 years
Total Degree Cost ÷ Annual Earnings

College of Staten Island CUNY vs. National Average

Comparison of key performance metrics showing how College of Staten Island CUNY's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes College of Staten Island CUNY's performance within the broader higher education landscape.

EDsmart Insight: With a 268.1% return on investment, College of Staten Island CUNY delivers exceptional value. Graduates earn $65,495 median—+8% above the national average—making this a strong investment for career-focused students.

Acceptance & Selectivity

Getting In

Acceptance Rate
92.3%
Lightly Selective
National Average
69%
Average acceptance rate
  • SAT Evidence-Based Reading 460-620
  • SAT Math 430-630
  • SAT Writing Not reported
  • ACT Composite Not reported
  • SAT & ACT Required
  • Undergraduate Enrollment 9,657
  • Full-Time Students 78.8%
  • Part-Time Students 21.2%
  • Retention Rate 75.7%
  • Graduation Rate 36.8%
  • Student-Faculty Ratio 17:1

How to Get Into College of Staten Island CUNY

1. Meet Academic Requirements: College of Staten Island CUNY 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 92.3%, College of Staten Island CUNY 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 92.3% acceptance rate, College of Staten Island CUNY 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 890 and 1250 on the SAT.

Academic Programs

Undergraduate Program Distribution

Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among College of Staten Island CUNY undergraduates. Psychology, General, Business/Commerce, General, and English Language and Literature, General draw the most students.

  • Psychology, General 20.5%
  • Business/Commerce, General 11.7%
  • English Language and Literature, General 6.2%
  • Accounting and Related Services 6.2%
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 5.3%
  • Biology, General 4.4%
See more majors
  • Sociology and Anthropology 4.4%
  • Communication and Media Studies 4.3%

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 $120,316
  • 2. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $112,778
  • 3. Computer Science $99,880
Show additional high-earning majors
  • 4. Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions $93,443
  • 5. Engineering, General $80,915
  • 6. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods $72,209
  • 7. Business/Commerce, General $68,883
  • 8. Biology, General $68,849
  • 9. Accounting and Related Services $68,247
  • 10. Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities $67,334

Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)

  • 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $153,845
  • 2. Educational Administration and Supervision (Graduate/Professional Certificate) $131,076
  • 3. Special Education and Teaching (Master's Degree) $85,086
Show additional graduate majors
  • 4. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas (Master's Degree) $83,888
  • 5. Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language (Master's Degree) $77,066
  • 6. Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Doctoral Degree) $76,475
  • 7. Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions (Master's Degree) $75,565
  • 8. Social Work (Master's Degree) $67,070
  • 9. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Master's Degree) $49,747
  • 10. Biology, General (Master's Degree) $46,299

Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $120,316—79% more than Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities ($67,334). Graduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing programs lead with $153,845 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.

Online Degrees & Distance Learning

College Scorecard reports fully online programs for College of Staten Island CUNY. 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

  • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities (Associate's Degree, 564 graduates)
  • Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 332 graduates)
  • Business/Commerce, General (Bachelor's Degree, 189 graduates)
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Associate's Degree, 112 graduates)
  • Accounting and Related Services (Bachelor's Degree, 101 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 (42 programs)â–¼
  • Psychology, General
  • Business/Commerce, General
  • Accounting and Related Services
  • English Language and Literature, General
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
  • Sociology and Anthropology
  • Biology, General
  • Communication and Media Studies
  • Computer Science
  • Economics
  • History
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
  • Political Science and Government
  • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
  • Social Work
  • Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
  • Mathematics
  • Fine and Studio Arts
  • Engineering, General
  • Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions
  • Information Science/Studies
  • Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Film/Video and Photographic Arts
  • Philosophy
  • Music
  • International/Global Studies
  • Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
  • Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
  • Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other
  • Chemistry
  • Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
  • Area Studies
  • Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
  • Geography and Cartography
  • Physics
  • Sociology
  • Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
  • Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
  • International Relations and National Security Studies
  • Engineering Technologies/Technicians, Other
  • Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
Online Master's Degrees (21 programs)â–¼
  • Special Education and Teaching
  • Social Work
  • Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations
  • Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
  • Biology, General
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
  • English Language and Literature, General
  • Neurobiology and Neurosciences
  • Computer Science
  • Accounting and Related Services
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
  • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
  • Health and Medical Administrative Services
  • History
  • Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
  • Natural Resources Conservation and Research
  • Film/Video and Photographic Arts
  • Student Counseling and Personnel Services
  • Chemistry
Online Doctoral Degrees (1 program)â–¼
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (7 programs)â–¼
  • Educational Administration and Supervision
  • History
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
  • Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
  • Special Education and Teaching
  • Bioethics/Medical Ethics
  • Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education
Online First Professional Degrees (2 programs)â–¼
  • Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing

Student Demographics

Student Population

  • Total Undergraduate Enrollment 9,657
  • Full-Time Students 78.8%
  • Part-Time Students 21.2%
  • Male Students 48.7%
  • Female Students 51.3%
  • Caucasian 40.1%
  • Asian 13.5%
  • Hispanic 27.9%
  • Black 12.8%
  • Pell Grant Recipients 49.6%

Racial & Ethnic Diversity

Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects College of Staten Island CUNY's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.

Gender Distribution

Gender breakdown of College of Staten Island CUNY's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

How well does College of Staten Island CUNY support students from different economic backgrounds?

Pell Grant Recipients
32.6%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
37.2%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
4.6 pts
excellent equity

What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong 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 College of Staten Island CUNY, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

EDsmart Insight: College of Staten Island CUNY has a diverse student body, with 40.1% identifying as White.

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

How well does College of Staten Island CUNY support students from different economic backgrounds?

Pell Grant Recipients
32.6%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
37.2%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
4.6 pts
excellent equity

What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong 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 College of Staten Island CUNY, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

Our Take

College of Staten Island CUNY achieves an outstanding 268.1% return on investment, ranking among the top value institutions nationwide. While ranked #1239 overall, the school's financial value proposition significantly outperforms its selectivity ranking.

Students graduate to $65,495 median earnings while paying just $5,579 annually—a combination that produces superior ROI. The 36.8% graduation rate and 75.7% retention demonstrate solid student outcomes and satisfaction.

High-Value Institution: Why College of Staten Island CUNY Delivers Strong Returns

EDsmart identifies College of Staten Island CUNY as a high-value institution where modest costs combine with strong earning potential.

The Value Formula: College of Staten Island CUNY's 268.1% ROI stems from balancing $65,495 median post-graduation earnings against $5,579 annual costs. This ratio outperforms most selective institutions where higher earnings come with prohibitive price tags.

Ideal Candidates: Budget-conscious students seeking maximum financial return. First-generation college students and middle-class families who need affordable paths to solid careers. Students in practical fields (business, healthcare, technology) where degree cost directly impacts lifetime wealth accumulation.

Understanding the Trade-offs: Schools with 268.1% ROI typically offer less brand prestige than elite universities. Career services, research opportunities, and facilities may be less extensive. For fields where institutional reputation matters significantly (law, medicine, academia), higher-ranked alternatives might justify additional investment.

EDsmart Verdict: With a B- grade and #1239 ranking, College of Staten Island CUNY represents smart value for students prioritizing financial outcomes. The school proves that high ROI doesn't require elite selectivity—careful program selection and cost management deliver results.

Key Takeaways

  • 36.8% graduation rate sits 25.7 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
  • 75.7% first-year retention is 1.1 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
  • 268.1% return on investment is 218.2 points above the national 49.9% benchmark.
  • Median earnings of $65,495 run about 8% higher than national outcomes four years after graduation.
  • Average net price of $5,579 is roughly $14,500 lower than the national median of $20,079.

Helpfulness for Students

Green Flags
  • 17:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
  • 75.7% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
  • 42.3% employment rate within three years sits 25.9 points below national outcomes.
Red Flags
  • 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

Located in Staten Island, NY, College of Staten Island CUNY operates as a public university and receives a B- from EDsmart. It holds a #1239 national ranking Grades by category break down as Completion D+, Support B+, Career Outcomes D-, 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.

75.7% of learners come back after year one while 36.8% earn an award within eight years of entry. Return on investment currently measures 268.1% for this program.

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 $5,579 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $14,795.

Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $9,216 per year.

Graduates leave with a median of $14,350 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.

About 49.6% 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

Median earnings come in near $65,495 four years after graduation. That sits about 8% above the national median.

The three-year employment rate is close to 42.3%.

Plan around an ROI of about 268.1% according to the Scorecard data.

Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.

EDsmart Admissions Snapshot

92.3% 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 College of Staten Island CUNY 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.

EDsmart Verdict
3.72 / 5
Value Rating - Based on affordability and career outcomes

Your Decision Toolkit

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Visit College of Staten Island CUNY Website →

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Russell Sage College
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is College of Staten Island CUNY's acceptance rate?

College of Staten Island CUNY's acceptance rate is 92.3%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.

How much does College of Staten Island CUNY cost?

At College of Staten Island CUNY, listed tuition and fees are $7,490 per year, and the average net price after aid is $5,579. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.

What is College of Staten Island CUNY's ranking?

College of Staten Island CUNY ranks #1239 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of B-, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.

What is College of Staten Island CUNY's graduation rate?

At College of Staten Island CUNY, the graduation rate is 36.8%, and first-year retention is 75.7%.

What are College of Staten Island CUNY's job outcomes?

Graduates of College of Staten Island CUNY report median earnings of $65,495 four years after graduation, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.

What is College of Staten Island CUNY's student population?

College of Staten Island CUNY enrolls about 9,657 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.

Contact Information

  • AccreditationMiddle States Commission on Higher Education (MSACHE)
  • Endowment$17.0M
  • Transfer Enrollment Rate26.8%

Data Source & Methodology â–¼