Analysis
Roger Williams University's accounting graduates start at $66,780βnearly $10,000 above the Rhode Island median and substantially ahead of national benchmarks. That places them in the 93rd percentile nationally, though within Rhode Island's competitive accounting landscape, they land in the middle of the pack at the 60th percentile. They're earning more than URI graduates but trailing Providence College and Bryant, the state's top programs. The $26,873 in median debt sits right at typical levels, yielding a manageable 0.40 debt-to-earnings ratio that suggests graduates can handle their loans comfortably.
The earnings trajectory looks solid, climbing 19% to nearly $80,000 by year four. That growth rate outpaces inflation and positions graduates well for long-term financial stability. The moderate sample size adds some uncertainty, but the pattern holds: Roger Williams delivers above-average outcomes without the premium debt load you might expect from a stronger brand.
For a family weighing options, this program offers strong value if your student gained admission to Roger Williams but not to Providence or Bryant. The debt is reasonable, starting salaries exceed what most accounting graduates earn, and the school's 88% admission rate makes it accessible. If cost is a primary concern, Rhode Island College delivers similar credentials for presumably less tuition, but Roger Williams graduates start $18,000 aheadβa gap that could justify the investment over a career.
Where Roger Williams University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Roger Williams 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roger Williams University | $66,780 | $79,634 | +19% |
| Providence College | $69,044 | $83,682 | +21% |
| Bryant University | $64,665 | $78,868 | +22% |
| University of Rhode Island | $57,529 | $68,563 | +19% |
| Johnson & Wales University-Providence | $45,450 | $62,088 | +37% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Rhode Island
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Rhode Island (8 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $42,666 | $66,780 | $79,634 | $26,873 | 0.40 | |
| $60,848 | $69,044 | $83,682 | $27,000 | 0.39 | |
| $51,169 | $64,665 | $78,868 | $27,000 | 0.42 | |
| $16,408 | $57,529 | $68,563 | $23,801 | 0.41 | |
| $10,986 | $48,921 | $57,587 | $18,881 | 0.39 | |
| $40,408 | $45,450 | $62,088 | $27,000 | 0.59 | |
| 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 Roger Williams University, approximately 16% 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 31 graduates with reported earnings and 36 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.