Analysis
SUNY Fredonia's accounting graduates start at $46,658—about $7,000 below the national median and roughly $5,000 below New York's typical accounting program. At 40th percentile statewide, this program sits decidedly in the middle tier of the state's accounting options, though the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means individual outcomes could vary considerably from these figures.
The more encouraging story emerges over time: earnings jump 29% to reach $60,259 by year four, essentially catching up to national benchmarks. Combined with below-average debt of $26,485, the program offers a manageable debt load—graduates owe about 57% of their first-year salary, which is reasonable for the field. The question is whether that four-year climb compensates for the slower start, particularly when New York employers can recruit from dozens of accounting programs with stronger initial placement outcomes.
For families prioritizing affordability and willing to accept a more gradual earnings trajectory, Fredonia delivers a workable path into accounting without crushing debt. But parents should recognize their student will likely start behind peers from Binghamton or Syracuse, who command $74,000+ right out of the gate. The small sample also warrants caution—talking to actual recent graduates would help verify whether these patterns hold consistently.
Where SUNY at Fredonia Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How SUNY at Fredonia 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SUNY at Fredonia | $46,658 | $60,259 | +29% |
| Fordham University | $76,473 | $96,453 | +26% |
| Yeshiva University | $69,252 | $87,338 | +26% |
| Syracuse University | $75,294 | $85,784 | +14% |
| Binghamton University | $74,151 | $84,365 | +14% |
Compare to Similar Programs in New York
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New York (76 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,771 | $46,658 | $60,259 | $26,485 | 0.57 | |
| $61,992 | $76,473 | $96,453 | $23,970 | 0.31 | |
| $63,061 | $75,294 | $85,784 | $27,000 | 0.36 | |
| $10,363 | $74,151 | $84,365 | $19,500 | 0.26 | |
| $46,140 | $71,436 | $79,786 | $23,250 | 0.33 | |
| $37,840 | $70,344 | $84,281 | $27,000 | 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 SUNY at Fredonia, approximately 37% 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 23 graduates with reported earnings and 26 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.