Analysis
Rutgers-Newark's accounting program stands out as an exceptional performer, ranking in the 95th percentile nationally and 80th percentile within New Jersey—impressive given that the state's accounting programs already outperform the national median. Starting salaries of $68,141 substantially exceed both national ($53,694) and state ($53,852) medians, putting graduates on par with elite programs like Rutgers-New Brunswick and approaching private school outcomes at Seton Hall.
The financial equation works strongly in students' favor. With median debt of $22,770—below both national and state averages—the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.33 represents manageable borrowing that graduates can reasonably handle. The 16% earnings growth to nearly $79,000 by year four demonstrates solid career progression in a field known for steady advancement opportunities.
What makes this particularly compelling is the accessibility factor: Rutgers-Newark admits 79% of applicants and serves a diverse student body (56% receive Pell grants), yet delivers outcomes that rival much more selective institutions. For families seeking strong accounting career preparation without the premium price tag of private alternatives, this program offers an outstanding value proposition with data from over 100 graduates backing these results.
Where Rutgers University-Newark Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Rutgers University-Newark 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-Newark | $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-New Brunswick | $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-NewarkNewark | $16,586 | $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-New BrunswickNew Brunswick | $17,239 | $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-Newark, approximately 56% 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.