Analysis
With comparable Vermont accounting programs producing first-year earnings around $57,000, Norwich's estimated outcomes place it solidly in the middle of the state's accounting landscape—above Vermont State but trailing Champlain College by about $5,000. The estimated debt of roughly $26,600 translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.47, meaning graduates would owe less than half their first-year salary. Nationally, these figures align well with typical accounting programs, where the median starting salary is $53,700.
The challenge here is the uncertainty itself. Because Norwich's actual graduate outcomes aren't published due to small sample sizes, you're making a decision based on peer performance rather than this institution's proven track record. Vermont accounting programs show significant variation—from $41,000 to $61,000 in first-year earnings—which means individual program quality, internship networks, and placement support matter considerably. Norwich's military heritage and structured environment may offer unique advantages for certain students, but without direct evidence of accounting graduate success, you're essentially betting on the school's general reputation.
For families comfortable with moderate debt and willing to accept some uncertainty, the estimated numbers suggest reasonable value. However, if you need concrete assurance about outcomes, Champlain College's reported $61,000 starting salary provides documented proof of strong accounting placement that Norwich simply can't match with available data.
Where Norwich University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Vermont
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Vermont (4 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $49,600 | $56,723* | — | $26,588* | — | |
| $45,550 | $61,306* | $60,831 | $27,000* | 0.44 | |
| $50,040 | $56,723* | $77,910 | $26,000* | 0.46 | |
| $11,400 | $41,488* | — | —* | — | |
| 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 Norwich University, approximately 24% 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 3 similar programs in VT. Actual outcomes may vary.