Accounting at University of Scranton

University of Scranton's accounting program lands graduates at the top tier nationally—95th percentile in first-year earnings at $70,453—but the picture looks different when you zoom into Pennsylvania. Within the state, those same earnings place it solidly mid-pack at the 60th percentile, trailing programs like Villanova and Lehigh by roughly $7,000-$8,000 annually. Still, that $70,453 starting salary significantly outpaces both the national median ($53,694) and Pennsylvania's median ($57,966), while the $27,000 in typical debt sits right at Pennsylvania's average and below the national norm.

The 21% earnings growth to $85,314 by year four demonstrates solid progression, and the 0.38 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates can realistically manage their loans—less than five months of gross salary. Scranton's 84% admission rate and moderate selectivity suggest this isn't an ultra-competitive program to enter, which makes those strong outcomes more accessible than what you'd find at schools with tougher gates.

For parents weighing Pennsylvania options, this is a reliable choice that delivers well above-average earnings without excessive debt, though families seeking the absolute highest starting salaries might consider the elite programs in Philadelphia. If your child can get similar aid packages across schools, the $7,000 salary difference with top programs matters; if Scranton comes cheaper, that gap narrows quickly.