Analysis
Plymouth State's accounting program produces graduates who match national earnings benchmarks but fall short within New Hampshire, where it ranks in just the 40th percentile. Starting at $54,209, graduates earn slightly above the national median but trail nearby competitors like Saint Anselm ($60,830) and Southern New Hampshire University ($54,898)βa meaningful gap when you're living in the same state with the same cost of living.
The debt picture looks reasonable at first glance: $27,000 equals exactly half of first-year earnings, which beats most accounting programs nationally. However, the near-flat earnings trajectoryβjust 1% growth over four yearsβis unusual for accounting, where professional certifications and experience typically drive steady income increases. This stagnation suggests graduates may be landing in roles with limited advancement potential.
The critical caveat here is the small sample size of under 30 graduates. These numbers could shift dramatically with just a few data points, making them less reliable than programs with larger cohorts. For a field as established as accounting, where outcomes are typically predictable, this limited data raises questions about program size and placement consistency. If your child is serious about accounting in New Hampshire, Saint Anselm's stronger track record warrants the comparison shopping, even if it costs more upfront.
Where Plymouth State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Plymouth State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plymouth State University | $54,209 | $54,684 | +1% |
| Georgetown University | $89,564 | $127,971 | +43% |
| Santa Clara University | $78,417 | $101,411 | +29% |
| Southern New Hampshire University | $54,898 | $61,017 | +11% |
| Franklin Pierce University | $45,356 | $57,926 | +28% |
Compare to Similar Programs in New Hampshire
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New Hampshire (8 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $14,558 | $54,209 | $54,684 | $27,000 | 0.50 | |
| $46,810 | $60,830 | β | $27,000 | 0.44 | |
| $16,450 | $54,898 | $61,017 | $34,900 | 0.64 | |
| $44,963 | $45,356 | $57,926 | $26,274 | 0.58 | |
| National Median | β | $53,694 | β | $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 Plymouth State University, approximately 26% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 20 graduates with reported earnings and 23 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.