Analysis
Seton Hall's accounting program produces graduates earning nearly $30,000 more than the typical accounting major in New Jersey—a substantial premium that places it in the top 20% of Garden State programs. At $69,411 in the first year, graduates start within striking distance of The College of New Jersey's numbers while attending a school with a much higher acceptance rate. By year four, earnings climb to $87,039, representing 25% growth that's rare among accounting programs.
The financial structure works in students' favor. With median debt at $25,000 and strong first-year earnings, graduates face a debt burden equal to just 36% of starting salary—manageable enough that most could realistically pay it off within three to four years of aggressive repayment. While the debt sits at the national median for accounting programs, the significantly higher earnings more than compensate.
For families weighing private school tuition against state alternatives, Seton Hall delivers outcomes that justify the investment. The program punches above its weight given the university's accessibility, suggesting strong industry connections in the New York metro area. This is a clear win for students who get in—you're paying for a premium outcome, not just a brand name.
Where Seton Hall University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Seton Hall 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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% |
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Seton Hall UniversitySouth Orange | $51,370 | $69,411 | $87,039 | $25,000 | 0.36 |
 The College of New JerseyEwing | $18,685 | $74,403 | $85,225 | $22,500 | 0.30 |
 Rutgers University-NewarkNewark | $16,586 | $68,141 | $78,766 | $22,770 | 0.33 |
 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 Seton Hall University, approximately 30% 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 49 graduates with reported earnings and 75 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.