Analysis
Stevenson University's accounting program posts impressive numbers—$67,261 starting salary ranks in the 94th percentile nationally—but the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these figures might not be reliable indicators of typical outcomes. Among Maryland's 17 accounting programs, however, Stevenson sits comfortably in the middle of the pack at the 60th percentile, trailing powerhouses like University of Maryland-College Park and Loyola but ahead of the state median. The $24,922 debt load is reasonable and nearly identical to both state and national averages, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37.
The earnings trajectory shows modest but steady growth—9% over four years—which is typical for accounting roles where early career advancement depends on gaining experience and completing CPA certification. That $73,483 four-year mark suggests graduates are moving into more senior positions, though it's not the dramatic jump you'd see in fields like tech or finance.
The caveat here matters: with fewer than 30 graduates in this cohort, one or two outliers could significantly skew these numbers either way. If your child has been admitted and likes Stevenson's smaller environment (83% acceptance rate suggests accessible admissions), these results suggest competent career preparation. But given the uncertainty from the small sample, compare carefully with larger, more established programs like Towson or UMD-College Park, which offer more predictable outcomes at similar or better earnings levels.
Where Stevenson University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Stevenson 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stevenson University | $67,261 | $73,483 | +9% |
| Loyola University Maryland | $69,305 | $86,541 | +25% |
| University of Maryland-College Park | $69,821 | $84,592 | +21% |
| Salisbury University | $62,889 | $77,022 | +22% |
| McDaniel College | $65,941 | $74,227 | +13% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Maryland
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Maryland (17 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $39,708 | $67,261 | $73,483 | $24,922 | 0.37 | |
| $11,505 | $69,821 | $84,592 | $15,000 | 0.21 | |
| $55,480 | $69,305 | $86,541 | $27,000 | 0.39 | |
| $49,647 | $65,941 | $74,227 | $24,210 | 0.37 | |
| $47,240 | $64,849 | $67,143 | $19,500 | 0.30 | |
| $11,306 | $64,012 | $70,862 | $21,375 | 0.33 | |
| 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 Stevenson University, approximately 29% 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 16 graduates with reported earnings and 19 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.