Plaza College

Plaza’s academic identity revolves around career-ready programs, particularly in health sciences (like Surgical Technology and Dental Support Services) and business (Healthcare Management, Accounting). Classes are small, with a 25:1 student-faculty ratio, and the curriculum emphasizes practical skills—evidenced by rites of passage like white-coat ceremonies for health students. The college offers associate and bachelor’s degrees, with 87% of awards going to undergraduates in applied fields. Notably, the school lacks liberal arts breadth, focusing instead on direct workforce preparation.

With 846 undergraduates (80% female, per U.S. News), Plaza fosters a close-knit, professionally oriented community. Instagram highlights show students celebrating milestones like white-coat ceremonies, while the DEIB statement emphasizes cultural awareness training. There’s no mention of traditional college staples like dorms or athletics—unsurprising for a commuter school. Instead, engagement focuses on career prep, with blogs touting ‘behind-the-scenes moments’ in labs and clinics. The vibe is less ‘rah-rah college’ and more ‘let’s get you employed.’

Plaza’s 64% graduation rate (College Scorecard) crushes the 35% midpoint for two-year schools—a testament to its supportive environment. But post-grad pay lags: median earnings six years out are $32,282 (U.S. News), with early-career grads averaging just $20,000 (College Factual)—$7K below expectations. Health sciences dominate degrees awarded (Data USA), yet salaries suggest these are lower-paying niches like dental assisting. The ‘white coat’ pomp doesn’t always translate to white-collar paychecks.

At $19,860 annually (College Scorecard), Plaza costs double the midpoint for two-year schools ($9,666). But 64% of students receive aid, with an average package of $10,217 (BigFuture), bringing 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. to $17,923. The school actively promotes its financial aid team to help students tap grants and scholarships. Still, the ROI is questionable: graduates earn less than peers from similar programs, and the net price exceeds many CUNY options.

Plaza defies two-year college stereotypes with its 30% acceptance rate and strong grad rates, but it’s a trade-off. You get tight-knit cohorts, health-focused rituals, and career services—yet pay premium tuition for degrees that, per earnings data, may not outpace cheaper alternatives. Ideal for students seeking a structured path into allied health or business support roles, but less compelling for those eyeing higher-paying fields or transferable liberal arts credits.