Top 3 Database Management Programs in New York
Syracuse University
166 Database Management graduates annually, 99% graduation rate
CUNY New York City College of Technology
265 Database Management graduates annually, 98% graduation rate
CUNY Bernard M Baruch College
290 Database Management graduates annually, 62% graduation rate
- 1.New York offers 25+ database management programs across public and private institutions
- 2.Database administrators in New York earn median salaries of $95,200 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- 3.Job growth for database administrators is projected at 8% through 2032 (BLS)
- 4.SUNY schools offer excellent value with in-state tuition averaging $10,560
- 5.NYC metro area has highest concentration of database management jobs in the state
Database Management Education in New York State
New York State stands as a premier destination for database management education, hosting over 25 specialized programs across its diverse higher education landscape. The state's database management programs benefit from proximity to major financial and technology centers, particularly in New York City, where demand for skilled database professionals continues to grow.
Database administrators in New York earn significantly above the national average, with median salaries reaching $95,200 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This premium reflects the state's concentration of Fortune 500 companies, financial institutions, and tech startups that rely heavily on data-driven decision making.
The state's programs range from comprehensive computer science degrees with database specializations to focused information technology programs emphasizing data management. Many institutions maintain strong industry partnerships with companies like IBM, Oracle, and Microsoft, providing students with hands-on experience using enterprise-grade database systems.
New York's database management programs typically emphasize both traditional relational database management (SQL Server, Oracle, MySQL) and modern approaches including NoSQL databases, cloud data platforms, and big data technologies. This comprehensive approach prepares graduates for roles in data science, cybersecurity, and enterprise software development.
Complete Database Management Program Rankings
| Rank | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Syracuse University | Syracuse, NY | $61,310 | 99% | 84.9 |
| 2 | CUNY New York City College of Technology | Brooklyn, NY | $6,930 | 98% | 83.7 |
| 3 | CUNY Bernard M Baruch College | New York, NY | $6,930 | 62% | 82.2 |
| 4 | Binghamton University | Vestal, NY | $7,070 | 87% | 69.6 |
| 5 | Columbia University in the City of New York | New York, NY | $64,526 | 100% | 69.5 |
| 6 | Stony Brook University | Stony Brook, NY | $7,070 | 89% | 66.7 |
| 7 | Rochester Institute of Technology | Rochester, NY | $55,784 | 90% | 61.7 |
| 8 | CUNY Lehman College | Bronx, NY | $6,930 | 67% | 61.2 |
| 9 | CUNY Graduate School and University Center | New York, NY | $6,930 | — | 61.1 |
| 10 | Fordham University | Bronx, NY | $60,335 | 94% | 59.2 |
| 11 | SUNY Brockport | Brockport, NY | $7,070 | 99% | 53.6 |
| 12 | SUNY Old Westbury | Old Westbury, NY | $7,070 | 93% | 52.8 |
| 13 | Le Moyne College | Syracuse, NY | $37,770 | 90% | 51.7 |
| 14 | CUNY Brooklyn College | Brooklyn, NY | $6,930 | — | 51.3 |
| 15 | SUNY Buffalo State University | Buffalo, NY | $7,070 | — | 50.6 |
| 16 | Adelphi University | Garden City, NY | $45,450 | 82% | 46.9 |
| 17 | Molloy College | Rockville Centre, NY | $36,280 | 84% | 46.7 |
| 18 | College of Staten Island CUNY | Staten Island, NY | $6,930 | — | 45.9 |
| 19 | Mercy University | Dobbs Ferry, NY | $21,236 | 75% | 45.1 |
| 20 | SUNY College at Plattsburgh | Plattsburgh, NY | $7,070 | — | 43.7 |
| 21 | Excelsior University | Albany, NY | $0 | — | 43.3 |
| 22 | State University of New York at Oswego | Oswego, NY | $7,070 | — | 43.2 |
| 23 | SUNY at Fredonia | Fredonia, NY | $7,070 | — | 41.8 |
| 24 | SUNY Polytechnic Institute | Utica, NY | $7,070 | — | 41.3 |
| 25 | CUNY Medgar Evers College | Brooklyn, NY | $6,930 | — | 41 |
Showing 1–25 of 30
| Public Universities (SUNY) | |
|---|---|
| Average Tuition | |
| Class Size | |
| Research Opportunities | |
| Industry Connections | |
| Financial Aid | Merit + Need |
| ROI Timeline |
Admission Requirements and Application Process
Database management programs in New York typically require a strong foundation in mathematics and logical thinking. Most programs expect applicants to have completed high school coursework in algebra, statistics, and preferably some exposure to computer science concepts.
Standard admission requirements include a minimum GPA of 3.0, SAT scores of 1200+ (or ACT equivalent), and completion of core academic requirements. Competitive programs like those at Columbia University and NYU may require higher test scores and additional materials such as personal statements or letters of recommendation.
- High school diploma or equivalent with strong math performance
- SAT scores: 1200+ for competitive programs, 1000+ for SUNY schools
- Letters of recommendation (typically 2-3)
- Personal statement demonstrating interest in database technology
- Portfolio of relevant coursework or projects (preferred but not required)
Transfer students should prioritize completing mathematics prerequisites and any available computer science courses at their current institution. Many New York programs accept transfer credits from community colleges, making this an affordable pathway into database management education.
University at Buffalo
Buffalo, NY • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,070 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 95% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Database Management Graduates: 256 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 69%
- • Ranking Score: 84.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 95% graduation rate
- 256 database management graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 84.8 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (95%), program size (256 graduates), state salary outcomes ($130,710), and selectivity (69% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The programs offer both undergraduate and graduate pathways in data science with STEM approval for international students, allowing completion in one calendar year for the MS program. The data analytics concentration must be coupled with a primary business concentration, providing cross-functional expertise.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Calculus
- •Multivariate Calculus
- •Linear Algebra
- •Basic Statistics and Probability
- •Programming (at least one language - C/C++/Python/Java)
- •Data Structures
Admissions
- Min GPA: Equivalent of a B average or better
Available Specializations / Concentrations
CUNY New York City College of Technology
Brooklyn, NY • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $6,930 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 98% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Database Management Graduates: 265 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 81%
- • Ranking Score: 83.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 98% graduation rate
- 265 database management graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 83.7 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (98%), program size (265 graduates), state salary outcomes ($130,710), and selectivity (81% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The Data Science program offers flexible pacing with evening, weekend, and online classes, provides hands-on experience through internships and research projects, and connects students with NYC businesses through the CUNY 2X Initiative for career development and job placement assistance within six months of graduation.
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Career Outcomes
- Job Placement: job placement assistance within six months of graduation
- Top Employers: top tech companies, research institutions, government agencies
Syracuse University
Syracuse, NY • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $61,310 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 99% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Database Management Graduates: 148 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 42%
- • Ranking Score: 83.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 99% graduation rate
- 148 database management graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 83.4 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (99%), program size (148 graduates), state salary outcomes ($130,710), and selectivity (42% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Syracuse University offers comprehensive programs combining information management, technology, and sport analytics with strong industry connections and a 96% job placement rate. The programs feature data-driven curriculum including database management, programming, and economics with competitive starting salaries averaging $63,394.
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •MAT 221 Elementary Probability and Statistics I
- •ECN 101 Introductory Microeconomics
- •ECN 102 Introductory Macroeconomics
- •ECN 203 Economic Ideas and Issues
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.4
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 125 credits
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $63,394
- Job Placement: 96%
- Top Employers: Accenture, Amazon, Bank of America, BlackRock, Bloomberg, Deloitte, IBM, JPMorgan Chase & Co., Microsoft, Morgan Stanley
Available Specializations / Concentrations
CUNY Bernard M Baruch College
New York, NY • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $6,930 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 62% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Database Management Graduates: 290 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 50%
- • Ranking Score: 82.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 62% graduation rate
- 290 database management graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 82.2 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (62%), program size (290 graduates), state salary outcomes ($130,710), and selectivity (50% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
This Executive MS in Information Systems is custom-designed for managers with 5+ years of experience, offering comprehensive technical knowledge and strategic skills with deep focus on data analytics tools and methods. The cohort-based program includes an international study tour and hands-on experience with the latest software tools and statistical analysis methods.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Five or more years of professional/managerial experience
- •An undergraduate degree from an accredited university or foreign equivalent
- •Appropriate quantitative skills acquired via academic training or professional experience
Program Details
- Credits: 31.5 credits
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Binghamton University
Vestal, NY • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,070 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 87% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Database Management Graduates: 74 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 38%
- • Ranking Score: 73.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 87% graduation rate
- 74 database management graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 73.1 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (87%), program size (74 graduates), state salary outcomes ($130,710), and selectivity (38% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Binghamton University offers multiple database-related programs including Data Analytics MS and Data Science and Statistics MS with strong industry placement rates of 73-88% at top technology companies. The programs include online offerings and lead to careers at major employers like Amazon, Google, IBM, and Microsoft.
Admissions
- Acceptance Rate: 38.6%
Career Outcomes
- Job Placement: 73% (graduate), 88% (undergraduate)
- Top Employers: Amazon/AWS, Tata Consultancy, IBM, Lockheed Martin, Google, JPMorgan Chase, Epic Systems, BAE Systems, Bloomberg, Capital One, Microsoft
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Database Administrator
SOC 15-1141Design, implement, and maintain database systems for organizations. Ensure data security, performance optimization, and backup procedures.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze complex datasets to extract business insights and build predictive models using statistical methods and machine learning.
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Create applications and systems that interact with databases, focusing on data-driven software solutions.
Systems Administrator
SOC 15-1142Manage and maintain computer systems, networks, and database infrastructure for organizations.
Business Intelligence Analyst
SOC 15-2041Transform raw data into actionable business insights through reporting, dashboards, and data visualization.
Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities
New York State offers several financial aid programs specifically beneficial to database management students. The Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) provides up to $5,665 annually for eligible New York residents attending in-state institutions, significantly reducing the cost of SUNY programs.
Many database management programs qualify for STEM-focused scholarships and grants. The NYS Math and Science Teaching Incentive Program offers loan forgiveness for students who commit to teaching mathematics or science in New York public schools.
- Federal Pell Grants: Up to $7,395 for eligible students
- New York State TAP: Up to $5,665 for state residents
- SUNY scholarships: Merit-based awards ranging from $1,000-$5,000
- Industry scholarships from Oracle, Microsoft, and IBM
- Work-study programs available at most institutions
Students should explore employer tuition reimbursement programs as many technology companies offer educational benefits for database-related coursework. This option is particularly valuable for working professionals looking to advance their careers in database management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on 25 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Database Management degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific database management salaries from BLS OES 2024
Explore Related Programs and Resources
Source: Students using New York State financial aid graduate with 43% less debt than national average
Next Steps to Start Your Database Management Career
Research and Apply to Programs
Use our rankings to identify 3-5 programs that match your academic profile and career goals. Submit applications by priority deadlines to maximize financial aid eligibility.
Strengthen Technical Prerequisites
Enroll in mathematics courses (statistics, calculus) and basic computer science if not already completed. Consider introductory SQL courses through platforms like Coursera or edX.
Explore Financial Aid Options
Complete the FAFSA by state deadlines and research New York-specific aid programs. Consider work-study opportunities and employer tuition assistance if currently employed.
Build Relevant Experience
Pursue internships, part-time IT roles, or volunteer opportunities involving data management. Create personal projects using free database software like MySQL or PostgreSQL.
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.