Analysis
Based on comparable accounting programs in Massachusetts, Fisher College graduates might expect first-year earnings around $65,000βright at the state median but well above the national benchmark of $54,000. The estimated debt load of roughly $27,000 translates to a manageable 0.41 ratio, meaning less than half a year's salary to repay. These projections align closely with what similar Massachusetts programs typically produce, though it's worth noting that elite programs like Boston College and Bentley push into the low-$70,000s.
The real question is whether Fisher delivers Massachusetts-level outcomes or something closer to national norms. Massachusetts accounting programs benefit from a robust financial services sector and strong regional demand, which helps explain why the state median sits $11,000 above the national average. If Fisher's graduates capture those regional advantages, the debt burden becomes quite reasonableβless than what you'd typically see for accounting programs nationwide.
For an anxious parent, the math works if the outcome matches the peer estimate. A $65,000 starting salary provides solid financial footing, especially with Boston's accounting job market. The risk lies in the uncertainty: without actual graduate data, you're banking on Fisher performing at the state median rather than lagging behind it. The 71% admission rate and significant Pell population suggest this isn't competing directly with Bentley or Boston College, but accounting credentials often matter more than institutional prestige in this field.
Where Fisher College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (26 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $35,013 | $65,304* | β | $26,966* | β | |
| $67,680 | $75,512* | $98,724 | $18,000* | 0.24 | |
| $60,850 | $73,234* | β | $27,000* | 0.37 | |
| $58,150 | $72,823* | $83,486 | $27,000* | 0.37 | |
| $39,212 | $68,483* | $78,896 | β* | β | |
| $17,357 | $67,574* | $85,464 | $23,250* | 0.34 | |
| 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 Fisher College, approximately 42% 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 14 similar programs in MA. Actual outcomes may vary.