Analysis
A finance degree from Gordon College lands in the middle of a highly stratified field in Massachusetts. While comparable programs in the state suggest first-year earnings around $55,900—close to the state and national medians—this puts Gordon graduates roughly $16,000 behind nearby Bentley and $26,000 behind Boston College. By year four, earnings reach $63,400, showing modest growth but still trailing the state's top programs.
The estimated debt load of $26,750 creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.48, meaning roughly half a year's salary to repay—better than many bachelor's programs nationally. Finance programs in Massachusetts typically carry similar debt burdens around $26,700, so Gordon appears aligned with state norms on this front. The challenge is less about affordability and more about competitive positioning in a field where employer prestige and alumni networks drive significant earning differences.
For families considering Gordon's finance program, the key question is whether the school's environment and values justify mid-tier financial outcomes in a market dominated by business-focused institutions. The debt is reasonable, but your child will be competing for jobs against graduates from programs that command 20-40% higher starting salaries. If Gordon's specific academic culture is the draw, this program won't create financial hardship—but if maximizing finance career earnings is the priority, the data from peer programs suggests looking at Massachusetts schools with stronger placement records in financial services.
Where Gordon College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all finance and financial management services bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gordon College | — | $63,448 | — |
| Boston College | $82,495 | $110,242 | +34% |
| Bentley University | $72,309 | $92,531 | +28% |
| Stonehill College | $58,832 | $90,245 | +53% |
| University of Massachusetts-Amherst | $68,920 | $83,610 | +21% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
Finance and Financial Management Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (24 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $28,100 | $55,914* | $63,448 | $26,750* | — | |
| $67,680 | $82,495* | $110,242 | $18,000* | 0.22 | |
| $58,150 | $72,309* | $92,531 | $26,000* | 0.36 | |
| $17,357 | $68,920* | $83,610 | $23,250* | 0.34 | |
| $39,212 | $62,878* | — | $27,000* | 0.43 | |
| $54,500 | $58,832* | $90,245 | $26,000* | 0.44 | |
| National Median | — | $53,590* | — | $23,332* | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with finance and financial management services graduates
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Chief Executives
Chief Sustainability Officers
General and Operations Managers
Personal Financial Advisors
Financial and Investment Analysts
Financial Risk Specialists
Budget Analysts
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Insurance Underwriters
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 Gordon College, approximately 21% 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 11 similar programs in MA. Actual outcomes may vary.