Analysis
Rutgers-New Brunswick's accounting program ranks among the nation's elite, placing in the 95th percentile nationally with first-year earnings of $68,141—nearly $15,000 above the national median. Within New Jersey's competitive accounting landscape, it holds the 80th percentile position and ties for third-highest earnings among state programs, trailing only The College of New Jersey by about $6,000. For a public university with a 65% admission rate, these outcomes are exceptional.
The financial picture is particularly attractive with moderate debt of $22,770, resulting in a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.33. While debt levels sit in the 67th percentile nationally (meaning some programs have lower debt), the strong earning power more than compensates. Graduates see solid 16% earnings growth over four years, reaching nearly $79,000 by their fourth year post-graduation.
For parents weighing options, this represents one of the strongest accounting programs in New Jersey at a fraction of the cost of private alternatives. The combination of top-tier earning potential, reasonable debt, and the credibility of Rutgers creates compelling value for students seeking accounting careers in the tri-state area's robust financial services market.
Where Rutgers University-New Brunswick Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Rutgers University-New Brunswick 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rutgers University-New Brunswick | $68,141 | $78,766 | +16% |
| Seton Hall University | $69,411 | $87,039 | +25% |
| The College of New Jersey | $74,403 | $85,225 | +15% |
| Rutgers University-Camden | $68,141 | $78,766 | +16% |
| Rutgers University-Newark | $68,141 | $78,766 | +16% |
Compare to Similar Programs in New Jersey
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New Jersey (23 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Rutgers University-New BrunswickNew Brunswick | $17,239 | $68,141 | $78,766 | $22,770 | 0.33 |
 The College of New JerseyEwing | $18,685 | $74,403 | $85,225 | $22,500 | 0.30 |
 Seton Hall UniversitySouth Orange | $51,370 | $69,411 | $87,039 | $25,000 | 0.36 |
 Rutgers University-NewarkNewark | $16,586 | $68,141 | $78,766 | $22,770 | 0.33 |
 Rutgers University-CamdenCamden | $17,079 | $68,141 | $78,766 | $22,770 | 0.33 |
 Ramapo College of New JerseyMahwah | $15,978 | $66,615 | $78,346 | $25,000 | 0.38 |
| 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 Rutgers University-New Brunswick, approximately 27% 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 481 graduates with reported earnings and 479 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.