Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49 suggests this program should be manageable financially—if the estimates hold true. Based on comparable accounting programs in New York, graduates here can expect around $51,500 in first-year earnings against roughly $25,400 in debt. That's aligned with both state and national medians for accounting degrees, meaning this program tracks with typical outcomes rather than standing out as either exceptional or problematic.
The challenge is context. New York's accounting market clearly rewards graduates from certain institutions: Fordham and Syracuse grads start around $75,000, nearly 50% higher than what this program's peers typically produce. That gap matters in a high-cost-of-living area like the Bronx. At the same time, Mount Saint Vincent serves a population where 43% receive Pell grants, and the estimated debt here is lower than many private alternatives while still delivering credentials that meet CPA exam educational requirements.
The practical question is whether your child needs the Mount Saint Vincent experience specifically—small classes, the Riverdale campus, the mission-driven environment—enough to accept mid-tier accounting outcomes. If they're purely focused on maximizing earning potential in accounting and can access SUNY Binghamton or similar options, those produce significantly stronger starts. But if this school fits their needs and they're committed to the accounting track, the estimated debt burden won't be crushing, even if the salary ceiling appears lower than at elite competitors.
Where University of Mount Saint Vincent 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $42,740 | $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 University of Mount Saint Vincent, approximately 43% 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.