Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
Based on comparable accounting programs in New York, The College of Saint Rose appears positioned near the state median, with estimated first-year earnings around $51,500 against roughly $25,400 in debt—a manageable 0.49 ratio that suggests borrowers could feasibly repay loans within a few years of starting work. However, these figures come from peer programs across the state, not from tracking this school's actual graduates, so there's inherent uncertainty about whether Saint Rose students match these outcomes.
The gap between Saint Rose's estimated performance and the state's top programs is substantial. Schools like Fordham and Syracuse place accounting graduates into roles paying $75,000-plus, roughly 45% higher than what similar mid-tier programs achieve. That difference compounds significantly over a career, even if the debt loads are comparable. For families weighing a $100,000+ investment in a bachelor's degree, understanding why that gap exists—whether it's employer networks, curriculum rigor, or regional job markets—matters considerably.
If your child is considering Saint Rose for accounting, the estimated numbers suggest a reasonable foundation: typical New York accounting programs produce graduates who can handle their debt burden. But you're paying for outcomes that appear solidly average rather than competitive with the state's stronger programs. Direct conversations with the school about actual placement rates, CPA pass rates, and employer relationships would help clarify whether this particular program delivers value closer to the top or bottom of that statewide range.
Where The College of Saint Rose Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $37,452 | $51,525* | — | $25,363* | — | |
| $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 The College of Saint Rose, approximately 39% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 45 similar programs in NY. Actual outcomes may vary.