Analysis
CUNY Brooklyn College's accounting program presents a compelling financial proposition despite modest starting salaries. While first-year earnings of $42,862 lag behind both the national median ($53,694) and New York state median ($51,525), graduates see remarkable income growth, reaching $60,323 by year fourβa 41% jump that puts them on par with top-performing programs nationally.
The program's greatest strength lies in its exceptional affordability. With median debt of just $13,620βroughly half the national average and far below New York's typical $24,971βBrooklyn College graduates enter the workforce with minimal financial burden. This creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32, meaning most graduates can realistically pay off their loans within a few years rather than decades.
For families seeking value in accounting education, Brooklyn College delivers where it matters most: strong long-term earning potential without crushing debt. While the program ranks in the 25th percentile among New York accounting programs initially, the substantial earnings growth suggests graduates build valuable skills and experience quickly. The combination of CUNY's affordable tuition and solid career outcomes makes this an intelligent choice for students who prioritize financial stability over prestige.
Where CUNY Brooklyn College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How CUNY Brooklyn College 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| CUNY Brooklyn College | $42,862 | $60,323 | +41% |
| Fordham University | $76,473 | $96,453 | +26% |
| Yeshiva University | $69,252 | $87,338 | +26% |
| Syracuse University | $75,294 | $85,784 | +14% |
| Binghamton University | $74,151 | $84,365 | +14% |
Compare to Similar Programs in New York
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New York (76 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $7,452 | $42,862 | $60,323 | $13,620 | 0.32 | |
| $61,992 | $76,473 | $96,453 | $23,970 | 0.31 | |
| $63,061 | $75,294 | $85,784 | $27,000 | 0.36 | |
| $10,363 | $74,151 | $84,365 | $19,500 | 0.26 | |
| $46,140 | $71,436 | $79,786 | $23,250 | 0.33 | |
| $37,840 | $70,344 | $84,281 | $27,000 | 0.38 | |
| National Median | β | $53,694 | β | $25,000 | 0.47 |
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 CUNY Brooklyn College, approximately 56% 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 339 graduates with reported earnings and 126 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.