Analysis
Bryant & Stratton College-Syracuse North's accounting associate program graduates earn above the New York state median—ranking in the 60th percentile statewide—though they carry significantly more debt than typical NY accounting graduates ($26,291 versus the state median of $14,873). The first-year earnings of $36,958 roughly match what you'll find at other Bryant & Stratton campuses and sit right at the national average, but the debt load is nearly double what students at comparable programs typically face.
The modest 5% earnings bump over four years suggests graduates hit their stride quickly but don't see dramatic salary progression. That relatively flat trajectory becomes more concerning when paired with higher debt. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.71, graduates are managing a debt burden that's workable but not ideal—especially when community colleges like Niagara County offer similar or better outcomes with substantially less borrowing. The 65% Pell Grant rate indicates this program serves many students who need financial aid, making that debt premium particularly important to consider.
For families weighing options, this comes down to location and alternatives. If convenience or program structure at Bryant & Stratton fits your situation, graduates do earn more than most NY accounting associate holders. But if a SUNY community college is accessible, you're likely looking at similar earning potential with half the debt—a meaningful difference when starting a career.
Where Bryant & Stratton College-Syracuse North Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting associates's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Bryant & Stratton College-Syracuse North graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bryant & Stratton College-Syracuse North | $36,958 | $38,715 | +5% |
| Nassau Community College | $35,513 | $51,744 | +46% |
| Suffolk County Community College | $27,170 | $47,026 | +73% |
| CUNY LaGuardia Community College | $20,436 | $42,402 | +107% |
| Niagara County Community College | $39,761 | $39,761 | +0% |
Compare to Similar Programs in New York
Accounting associates's programs at peer institutions in New York (52 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $19,310 | $36,958 | $38,715 | $26,291 | 0.71 | |
| $6,726 | $39,761 | $39,761 | $14,873 | 0.37 | |
| $6,138 | $37,433 | $37,372 | $19,618 | 0.52 | |
| $19,593 | $36,958 | $38,715 | $26,291 | 0.71 | |
| $18,892 | $36,958 | $38,715 | $26,291 | 0.71 | |
| $19,126 | $36,958 | $38,715 | $26,291 | 0.71 | |
| National Median | — | $37,000 | — | $19,354 | 0.52 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with accounting graduates
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Financial and Investment Analysts
Financial Risk Specialists
Financial Examiners
Budget Analysts
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Accountants and Auditors
Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents
Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Bryant & Stratton College-Syracuse North, approximately 65% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 68 graduates with reported earnings and 106 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.