Farmingdale State College

Farmingdale’s academic identity is defined by career-ready programs in engineering tech, aviation, and bioscience. The college offers a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Administration through its Pasternack School of Engineering Technology and a BS in Bioscience via the School of Arts & Sciences. Every student completes writing-intensive coursework, and 62% participate in a senior capstone project. The student-faculty ratio is 18:1, fostering accessible mentorship. Public administration is another standout program, blending policy training with practical governance skills. Reddit threads and SUNY listings confirm the focus on employable degrees—no abstract liberal arts here.

Only 5% of students live on campus, but residence life is active—research shows on-campus students earn higher GPAs. The 380-acre campus offers bowling, billiards, and air hockey in Nassau and Suffolk Halls, plus modern fitness facilities (dubbed the 'Flab Factory'). Instagram highlights showcase a friendly, supportive community where 'everyone is willing to help.' The Office of Student Activities organizes career-focused and social events, though 95% of students commute. Athletics and campus tours lean into Farmingdale’s suburban Long Island vibe, with open spaces and approachable faculty.

Farmingdale’s 57% graduation rate is middling but aligns with its mission of serving career-bound students. Six months post-graduation, 38% of alumni earn over $35,200 annually, with a median early-career salary of $36,427. Nursing graduates report higher earnings—$69,781 within a decade. The college tracks outcomes by demographics, showing steady employment rates across racial/ethnic groups. While not a feeder for elite grad schools, Farmingdale delivers solid ROI for its cost, especially in technical fields.

As a SUNY school, Farmingdale keeps costs manageable. The average need-based aid?Need-based aidFinancial aid awarded based on your family's ability to pay, as measured by forms like the FAFSA, rather than on achievements. award for first-years is $8,388, and 59% receive scholarships or grants. The Net Price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. Calculator helps families estimate true costs after aid. Financial aid packages often include federal loans and work-study options, though the college emphasizes completing the FAFSA early. For Long Islanders seeking an affordable path to STEM careers, Farmingdale’s aid policies make it a pragmatic choice.

Farmingdale’s edge is its no-nonsense approach to career preparation. Unlike liberal arts colleges, it prioritizes direct pathways to employment—evident in aviation labs, nursing simulators, and engineering tech workshops. The 380-acre campus feels spacious yet intimate, and the 63% acceptance rate?Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. makes it accessible without sacrificing rigor. For Long Islanders eyeing jobs in tech, healthcare, or public service, Farmingdale offers SUNY affordability with a clear ROI: nearly 40% of grads quickly secure jobs paying above $35k.