Analysis
Based on comparable accounting programs in Pennsylvania, Eastern's graduates can expect starting salaries around $58,000 with estimated debt near $27,000βa manageable 0.47 debt-to-earnings ratio that suggests the program won't saddle students with crushing payments. Four-year earnings data shows growth to $65,698, indicating steady progression in the field. These estimates align closely with the state median for accounting programs, meaning Eastern appears to deliver typical outcomes for Pennsylvania, though notably trailing the elite tier where schools like Villanova and Lehigh push starting salaries above $75,000.
The 94% admission rate and 36% Pell enrollment tell you this is an accessible institution serving a broader range of students than the state's competitive programs. That accessibility comes with a tradeoff in earning powerβthe $20,000 gap between Eastern's estimated outcomes and top PA programs is substantial over a career. However, accounting offers professional credentials that can level the playing field over time, and the estimated debt load here won't lock your child into years of financial stress while earning their CPA.
For families prioritizing affordability and access over prestige, Eastern's accounting program appears positioned in the middle of the pack statewide. The debt burden seems reasonable for what accounting typically pays, but understand these are estimated figures based on peer institutionsβEastern's small graduate cohort means actual outcomes for this specific program remain unknown.
Where Eastern University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eastern University | β | $65,698 | β |
| Lehigh University | $77,026 | $95,363 | +24% |
| Bucknell University | $75,776 | $93,021 | +23% |
| Villanova University | $77,966 | $91,268 | +17% |
| University of Scranton | $70,453 | $85,314 | +21% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (76 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $37,420 | $57,966* | $65,698 | $27,000* | β | |
| $64,701 | $77,966* | $91,268 | $25,858* | 0.33 | |
| $62,180 | $77,026* | $95,363 | $23,179* | 0.30 | |
| $64,772 | $75,776* | $93,021 | $26,881* | 0.35 | |
| $52,309 | $70,453* | $85,314 | $27,000* | 0.38 | |
| $60,663 | $70,069* | $76,765 | $28,832* | 0.41 | |
| 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 Eastern University, approximately 36% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 42 similar programs in PA. Actual outcomes may vary.