Accounting at Saint Johns University

Saint John's accounting graduates earn $61,135 in their first year—solidly above both the national median ($53,694) and Minnesota's state median ($58,472), though not quite matching the state's top programs like University of Minnesota ($66,591) or University of St Thomas ($65,573). The 60th percentile ranking among Minnesota accounting programs means you're getting above-average outcomes, just not elite-tier results. Four years out, earnings climb to $74,757, showing the program sets graduates up for healthy career progression rather than just a strong starting salary.

The financial equation works in your favor here. At $27,000 in debt—right at Minnesota's median but below the national average—graduates owe less than half their first-year salary. This 0.44 debt-to-earnings ratio is better than most accounting programs nationwide, landing in the 25th percentile for debt burden. Put simply: your child will start earning well and won't be crushed by loan payments while doing it.

Saint John's delivers what you'd hope for from a moderately selective liberal arts college: strong fundamentals that translate into solid accounting careers, without the premium price tag of Minnesota's most expensive options. If your child prefers a smaller campus environment over a large state university, the slightly lower starting salary compared to U of M is offset by comparable debt levels, making this a financially sensible choice.