Most
Affordable Colleges in Albany in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Albany, NY, provides management foundations and valuable preparation for organizations across the Capital Region. Typical courses include accounting, finance, marketing, economics, business law, statistics, human resources, and operations. The University at Albany, SUNY, and Bryant & Stratton College's Albany campus offer business study options. Graduates pursue roles as marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, financial analysts, sales representatives, operations supervisors, or management trainees in government, healthcare, finance, technology, and nonprofit organizations.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Albany, NY, lets students explore how people think, feel, and behave, building research and communication skills. Typical courses include introductory psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology, statistics, research methods, and neuroscience. Popular college options available in Albany include the University at Albany, SUNY, and Maria College. Graduates commonly pursue roles in social services, human resources, case management, research assistance, and community outreach; advanced study is generally needed for licensed clinical practice.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Albany offers a mix of theory and hands-on problem-solving. Typical courses include programming, data structures, algorithms, computer systems, databases, software engineering, and cybersecurity. Students build projects and gain internship experience. Graduates may work as software developers, systems analysts, data analysts, QA testers, or cybersecurity specialists. The University at Albany offers an established computer science program; Albany-based Excelsior University also offers online computer science study. Local employers and state agencies provide career opportunities.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Albany, NY offers preparation to support people facing emotional, behavioral, and life challenges. Courses typically include counseling theories, assessment, ethics, multicultural counseling, group therapy, human development, and supervised practicum. The University at Albany and Russell Sage College are local options for counseling-related graduate study. Depending on degree and licensure, graduates may work as mental health counselors, school counselors, career counselors, case managers, or substance use counselors in agencies, schools, and community clinics.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Albany, NY, combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, mental health, and community health. Students develop assessment, communication, and patient-care skills through placements. Institutions offering nursing study include Maria College, Russell Sage College, and the University at Albany. Graduates work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term-care facilities, and health agencies, with opportunities in emergency, pediatric, or medical-surgical care.

Best Colleges in Albany, NY Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is $18,841, compared with $35,104 at schools in the top 10%, making the overall median substantially lower.
• An average of 99.2% of students receive financial aid, versus 66.5% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 66.5%. Schools receive an average of 8,899 applicants, compared with 23,557.2 at top-10% schools; the median applicant counts are 456 men and 1,114 women.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,232.5 and 28, respectively.
• Average enrollment is 5,416.83 students, with averages of 429.33 enrolled men and 420.75 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 47.0%, compared with 65.9% at schools in the top 10%. Median graduation rates are 44.0% for men and 53.5% for women.
• Four institutions offer associate's degrees, five offer bachelor's degrees, four offer master's degrees, and one offers a doctor's degree.
• There are six coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside acceptance rates, enrollment, and graduation outcomes. Consider how the available degree levels and the difference between overall and top-10% statistics fit your academic goals and budget.

How much does studying at a college in Albany, NY cost?

The average reported cost of studying in Albany, NY, is $23,191.40. For a local student considering a degree, this is a useful starting point for planning, though your actual bill depends on school, program, and housing choices. UAlbany and Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences are local options; tuition and aid differ by institution.

• Average tuition and fees: $22,956.50.
• Average room and board: $11,888.00.
• Average books and supplies: $1,237.50.

Use these figures to compare Albany-area choices. Living at home, sharing housing, commuting, or using grants and scholarships can change what you pay. Ask colleges for cost and net-price estimates, and check whether fees, books, and housing are included. SUNY options may offer a different price structure from private colleges, so compare aid offers with sticker prices. A budget can help you find a program that fits your goals and feel confident taking the step toward a degree.

How long does it take to finish college in Albany, NY?

Most bachelor's degrees in Albany take about four years of full-time study; an associate's degree usually takes two years. At University at Albany (SUNY), Siena College, or Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, your timeline depends on program requirements, course availability, and how many credits you bring in. Part-time study, changing majors, or needing prerequisite courses can extend the schedule, while planning ahead can keep you on track.

Graduation rates offer useful perspective: the average is 47.0%, rising to 65.9% among the top 10% of schools in the data. The averages are 42.75% for men and 51.5% for women. These figures show that completing a degree is achievable, but persistence and support matter.

Ways to potentially shorten your timeline include:

• Bring accepted AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits.
• Transfer applicable credits after an evaluation.
• Use summer classes or an accelerated course sequence.

Ask Albany advisers which options fit your degree.

Salary

College graduates in Albany, NY, earn a median alumni salary of about $56,744. For graduates of schools in the top 10% by this measure, the median is about $75,757. These figures offer a useful benchmark, though your own earnings can differ based on your major, experience, and career path.

Albany-area students can choose from institutions such as the University at Albany, SUNY, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, and Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. Your degree and the work experience you gain while studying can shape how your earnings compare with these medians.

• Median alumni salary: $56,744
• Median at top 10% schools: $75,757

That's an encouraging starting point as you plan for life after graduation: Albany offers several college options, and your eventual earning potential depends in part on the program and opportunities you pursue.

People also ask

How much does it cost to go to college in Albany?

Costs depend on the school, your New York residency, and whether you live on campus. At SUNY Albany, recent published undergraduate tuition has been about $7,000 a year for New York State residents and about $25,000 for nonresidents, before fees. Housing, meals, books, and personal expenses add to the total, but financial aid can make college more affordable.

What college in Albany has the lowest tuition?

For a traditional four-year campus in Albany, SUNY Albany is generally one of the lower-tuition options for New York State residents because it is a public SUNY university. Private colleges typically charge more in listed tuition, though scholarships can change what you actually pay. If you're open to nearby cities, community colleges may offer lower tuition.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Albany, NY Ranking in 2026-2027

University at Albany is a large public university offering a broad campus-based college experience in Albany, NY. Its 17,426 enrolled students give prospective students a sizable academic community. The school reports a 69% acceptance rate and a 61% graduation rate. Estimated total study cost is $27,460, while median alumni salary is $42,610. For Albany residents, its local setting may make commuting practical; compare living and transportation expenses with the listed cost when planning your degree and budget and financial aid.

Maria College of Albany is a small private college in Albany, NY, with 853 enrolled students and an intimate-scale learning environment. Its acceptance rate is 44%, and its graduation rate is 30%. Total study cost is $18,000, while median alumni salary is $69,028. For a student in Albany, the nearby setting can simplify commuting and help keep relocation low. Consider whether programs, class formats, and aid fit your goals before comparing its cost and outcomes with other local college options.

St. Peter's Hospital College of Nursing is a nursing-focused college in Albany, NY, serving students pursuing nursing education. It enrolls 123 students and reports a 100% acceptance rate; graduation-rate data is unavailable. The listed total cost is $11,456, and median alumni salary is $80,563. Its enrollment suggests a compact student community, though applicants should confirm program details, clinical requirements, and expenses. If you live in Albany, assess travel to classes and clinical placements as part of your schedule and budget.

Bryant & Stratton College-Albany is a career-oriented college serving students in Albany, NY. Its enrollment is 250, making it a small option for local degree seekers. The graduation rate is 29%, while acceptance-rate information is unavailable. Total study cost is $18,841, and median alumni salary is $39,764. Albany residents may be able to remain near home while studying, but should verify commuting demands and program availability. Compare these figures with your career plans, financial aid eligibility, and colleges before deciding.

Excelsior University is a university with a flexible, largely online learning model, which may suit Albany, NY, students balancing work and study. It enrolls 12,941 students. The source data does not provide its acceptance rate, graduation rate, or total study cost, so request current figures and program-specific fees before applying. Median alumni salary is $70,951. Albany-based learners should also check any in-person requirements, transfer-credit policies, and support services to understand how the degree fits their schedule, budget, and career direction.