Analysis
New Hampshire's accounting market shows strong demand, with similar associate programs producing median first-year earnings around $38,000. Based on comparable programs nationally, Nashua Community College graduates would earn approximately $37,000 in their first year—right in line with what accounting associate holders typically see. The estimated $16,000 in debt represents about five months of gross income, well below the national median debt load of $19,354 for this credential. That 0.43 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests a manageable financial start for most graduates.
The challenge here is uncertainty. With no reported outcome data for this specific program, you're making a decision based on what peer programs deliver rather than Nashua's actual track record. The fundamentals work—associate-level accountants find steady employment, and the estimated debt isn't crushing—but you lack visibility into job placement rates, CPA exam preparation quality, or whether local employers actively recruit from this program. Southern New Hampshire University reports actual outcomes at $37,986, suggesting the market supports these numbers in practice.
If your student needs an affordable entry into accounting and plans to work while potentially pursuing a bachelor's later, the estimated financial picture is reasonable. Just recognize you're betting on Nashua delivering results similar to its peers without concrete evidence that it does.
Where Nashua Community College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in New Hampshire
Accounting associates's programs at peer institutions in New Hampshire (10 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $7,140 | $37,001* | — | $15,979* | — | |
| $16,450 | $37,986* | $53,096 | $24,040* | 0.63 | |
| National Median | — | $37,000* | — | $19,354* | 0.52 |
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 Nashua Community College, approximately 25% 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 national median of 118 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.