Accounting at Chestnut Hill College

Chestnut Hill College's accounting graduates start at $50,408—about $7,500 below the Pennsylvania median and roughly $3,300 below the national benchmark. While the program sits in the 40th percentile among Pennsylvania's 76 accounting programs, the earnings gap compared to regional competitors is stark: graduates from nearby schools like Villanova, Lehigh, and even Drexel earn $20,000-$27,000 more in their first year.

The financial structure offers one advantage: at $27,000 in median debt (matching the state median but above the national average), the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.54 remains manageable, and graduates see solid 17% earnings growth by year four, reaching $59,082. Nearly half of students receive Pell grants, suggesting the program serves students who might not access higher-priced alternatives. However, the small sample size here—fewer than 30 graduates tracked—means individual outcomes could vary significantly from these medians.

For families weighing in-state accounting options, this program delivers credentials at a moderate debt load, but the earnings differential matters. If your child has the grades for admission to top-tier Pennsylvania accounting programs (and can manage those costs), the investment typically pays off. Chestnut Hill works best for students prioritizing smaller class sizes at a less selective school while understanding they'll likely start their careers earning below the Pennsylvania average for their field.