Analysis
Four years out, graduates of this program earn $41,083—a solid middle-class income that suggests the degree delivers on its promise. The earlier estimate of $37,001 for first-year earnings, based on national peer programs, appears conservative given how associate-level accounting credentials typically perform in Massachusetts's robust financial services market.
The estimated debt load of roughly $16,000 creates a manageable 0.43 ratio to first-year earnings, notably lower than the national median debt of $19,354 for similar programs. Comparable accounting programs at nearby community colleges show first-year earnings in the $35,600-$38,000 range, positioning North Shore squarely in line with Massachusetts expectations. The state's median debt for these programs runs about $13,000, so while North Shore's estimate sits somewhat higher, it's not dramatically out of step.
The trajectory from an estimated $37,000 in year one to over $41,000 by year four demonstrates that accounting credentials retain their value—a critical consideration for parents worried about whether an associate degree will limit earning potential. For families seeking an affordable path into business services, this program appears to deliver standard outcomes at standard cost, with the four-year earnings figure providing the most concrete evidence of where graduates actually land.
Where North Shore Community College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting associates's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Shore Community College | — | $41,083 | — |
| Southern New Hampshire University | $37,986 | $53,096 | +40% |
| Connecticut State Community College | $42,591 | $52,194 | +23% |
| Bunker Hill Community College | $35,602 | $49,823 | +40% |
| Northern Essex Community College | $37,960 | $49,609 | +31% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
Accounting associates's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (16 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 North Shore Community CollegeDanvers | $5,352 | $37,001* | $41,083 | $15,979* | — |
 Northern Essex Community CollegeHaverhill | $5,688 | $37,960* | $49,609 | $11,633* | 0.31 |
 Bunker Hill Community CollegeBoston | $5,520 | $35,602* | $49,823 | $14,250* | 0.40 |
| 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 North Shore Community College, approximately 33% 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.