Analysis
With $20,772 in debt for a bachelor's in accounting, University of New Haven graduates face a more manageable burden than the typical Connecticut accounting program, which carries median debt of $23,250. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32 suggests monthly loan payments around $232βroughly 4% of gross incomeβa comfortable starting point for someone entering a professional field. Similar accounting programs across Connecticut show first-year earnings around $65,660, which puts University of New Haven in line with state norms, though trailing the $71,000-76,000 range at nearby Quinnipiac, Fairfield, and UConn.
The four-year earnings figure of $68,891 indicates modest but real income growth, though it's worth noting this lags behind what Connecticut's top-tier accounting programs deliver. The difference between estimated first-year and actual fourth-year earnings is relatively smallβabout $3,200βwhich may reflect the reality that accounting salaries often plateau early without CPA certification or specialized experience. For families concerned about immediate ROI, the lower debt load here partially offsets any earnings gap with pricier competitors.
The practical takeaway: This program offers a solid entry point into accounting without overloading students with debt, but families should understand that career trajectory matters more than the diploma itself. Passing the CPA exam and gaining experience at reputable firms will drive long-term earnings far more than the name on the degree, especially when starting salaries across Connecticut programs cluster within a $10,000 range.
Where University of New Haven Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of New Haven | β | $68,891 | β |
| Fairfield University | $71,747 | $89,779 | +25% |
| University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus | $70,945 | $80,683 | +14% |
| University of Connecticut | $70,945 | $80,683 | +14% |
| University of Connecticut-Avery Point | $70,945 | $80,683 | +14% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (17 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $45,730 | $65,660* | $68,891 | $20,772 | β | |
| $53,090 | $75,566* | $79,981 | $24,000 | 0.32 | |
| $56,360 | $71,747* | $89,779 | $26,633 | 0.37 | |
| $20,366 | $70,945* | $80,683 | $21,898 | 0.31 | |
| $17,462 | $70,945* | $80,683 | $21,898 | 0.31 | |
| $17,462 | $70,945* | $80,683 | $21,898 | 0.31 | |
| National Median | β | $53,694* | β | $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 New Haven, approximately 27% 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 14 similar programs in CT. Actual outcomes may vary.