Analysis
Southern New Hampshire University's accounting program delivers solid middle-of-the-pack performance with one major advantage: exceptionally manageable debt levels. While the median starting salary of $54,898 places graduates around the 55th percentile nationally and 60th percentile in New Hampshire, the real story is the $34,900 median debt load. This debt level ranks in the 7th percentile nationally—meaning 93% of accounting programs saddle students with more debt—creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.64.
This debt advantage becomes clearer when compared to typical accounting programs. Nationally, accounting graduates carry a median debt of $25,000, but SNHU's $34,900 is still well below what creates financial stress. The earnings trajectory shows steady growth to $61,017 by year four, keeping pace with career progression expectations. Among New Hampshire's eight accounting programs, SNHU ranks respectably in the middle, trailing Saint Anselm College but outperforming several competitors.
For an anxious parent, this represents a reasonable investment in a stable career field. Your child will graduate with manageable debt and solid earning potential in a profession with consistent demand. While they won't be the highest earners immediately, the combination of accessible admission (96% acceptance rate), reasonable debt levels, and steady career growth makes this a financially sensible choice for students seeking accounting careers without excessive financial risk.
Where Southern New Hampshire University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Southern New Hampshire 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southern New Hampshire University | $54,898 | $61,017 | +11% |
| Georgetown University | $89,564 | $127,971 | +43% |
| Santa Clara University | $78,417 | $101,411 | +29% |
| Franklin Pierce University | $45,356 | $57,926 | +28% |
| Plymouth State University | $54,209 | $54,684 | +1% |
Compare to Similar Programs in New Hampshire
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New Hampshire (8 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $16,450 | $54,898 | $61,017 | $34,900 | 0.64 | |
| $46,810 | $60,830 | — | $27,000 | 0.44 | |
| $14,558 | $54,209 | $54,684 | $27,000 | 0.50 | |
| $44,963 | $45,356 | $57,926 | $26,274 | 0.58 | |
| 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 Southern New Hampshire University, approximately 47% 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 686 graduates with reported earnings and 887 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.