Analysis
Queens College delivers something increasingly rare in higher education: excellent debt management paired with solid career growth. With graduates leaving with just $11,313 in debt—less than half the national median—this program ranks among the most affordable accounting degrees in the country while still producing meaningful earnings growth of 30% by year four.
The earnings picture tells a nuanced story. While first-year salaries of $45,158 lag behind the national average, Queens College graduates catch up significantly, reaching $58,541 by year four. This puts the program at the 40th percentile among New York accounting programs—respectable middle-of-the-pack performance in a competitive state market. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.25 is exceptionally strong, meaning graduates can manage their loan payments comfortably while building their careers.
For families prioritizing financial security, Queens College offers compelling value. Your child would graduate with manageable debt and enter a field with clear upward trajectory. While they won't immediately match earnings from elite programs like Fordham or Syracuse, the combination of low debt and steady growth creates a financially sound foundation for an accounting career.
Where CUNY Queens College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How CUNY Queens 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 Queens College | $45,158 | $58,541 | +30% |
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $7,538 | $45,158 | $58,541 | $11,313 | 0.25 | |
| $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 | — | $53,694 | — | $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 Queens College, approximately 48% 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 401 graduates with reported earnings and 154 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.