Analysis
Based on comparable accounting programs across New York, this bachelor's degree appears positioned right at the state median—with estimated first-year earnings around $51,500 and debt near $25,400. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49 suggests manageable repayment, though it's worth noting that New York's accounting market shows enormous variation. Top programs in the state report outcomes 40-50% higher, while Keuka's peer institutions suggest more modest starting points.
The challenge here is understanding what distinguishes a $51,500 outcome from a $75,000 one when both lead to the same CPA credential. Location matters tremendously—graduates heading to NYC or other metro markets will likely exceed these estimates, while those staying in smaller upstate communities may fall short. With a 94% admission rate and average SAT scores around 1090, Keuka serves a different population than Syracuse or Fordham, which could affect both networking opportunities and employer recruitment patterns.
For families considering this investment, the fundamental question is whether the specific debt load feels sustainable given regional salary expectations. If your child plans to work in New York City, these estimates may prove conservative. If they're targeting regional firms in the Finger Lakes, budget accordingly. The absence of reported data means you'll need direct conversations with the career services office about actual placement outcomes and starting salaries for recent graduates.
Where Keuka College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $38,000 | $51,525* | — | $25,363* | — | |
| $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 Keuka College, approximately 44% 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 45 similar programs in NY. Actual outcomes may vary.