Accounting at Pace University

Pace University's accounting program punches well above its weight, placing graduates in the 95th percentile nationally for earnings despite the university's accessible 77% admission rate. With first-year earnings of $69,166 and growth to $80,265 by year four, graduates earn $15,472 more than the national accounting median—and $17,641 more than New York's median. Among the state's 76 accounting programs, this ranks in the 80th percentile, trailing only a handful of more selective institutions like Fordham and Syracuse.

The debt picture strengthens the case considerably. At $26,000, graduates owe roughly the national and state averages, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.38—meaning debt represents barely more than a third of first-year salary. This ratio is particularly favorable for New York, where cost of living typically strains recent graduates' budgets. The 16% earnings growth trajectory suggests solid career progression in the field.

For parents weighing accounting programs, Pace offers an unusually strong value proposition: competitive outcomes with elite programs at a school that's far more accessible. The combination of New York City location (crucial for accounting recruiting), robust sample size confirming these aren't flukes, and manageable debt makes this a smart choice for students targeting careers in accounting or finance without the pressure of gaining admission to the most selective schools.