Rankings / Outcomes

Highest-Paying Colleges for Accounting

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$97,518

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

85%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$31,506

Avg. Net Price

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When considering a degree in accounting, prospective students often look for schools that not only provide quality education but also lead to strong financial outcomes. The schools on this list share a focus on business and marketing programs, which can significantly impact a graduate's earnings potential. For example, the top school boasts average earnings above $120,000 for its graduates.

What sets these institutions apart from others is their impressive graduation rates, manageable debt levels, and the earning potential of their alumni. The average earnings for graduates from the top 50 schools on this list are nearly $100,000, while the average graduation rate stands at 86%. This data reflects not just the effectiveness of the programs, but also the opportunities available to graduates in the workforce.

Take Babson College and Bentley University, for instance. Babson leads with an impressive earning potential of $123,938, but students face a higher net price of $40,514 compared to Bentley's $37,930. This contrast highlights the need to balance financial considerations with potential career outcomes as students weigh their options.

Key Findings

Babson College graduates earn an average of $123,938, the highest on this list.

The average debt for graduates from these schools is $20,190, which is relatively manageable.

Graduation rates for the top schools average 86%, indicating strong program support.

Bentley University has a lower net price of $37,930 compared to Babson's $40,514.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $97,518

Avg. graduation rate 85%

Avg. net price $31,506

Avg. median debt $21,371

How We Ranked

Ranked by graduate earnings with program concentration in Business & Marketing

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Babson College

Wellesley, MA

Graduation93%

Earnings$123,938

Net Price$40,514

View full profile →

Bentley University

Waltham, MA

Graduation88%

Earnings$120,959

Net Price$37,930

View full profile →

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA

Graduation93%

Earnings$114,862

Net Price$31,944

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Babson College

Wellesley, MA · 2,728 students · Private nonprofit

With a striking graduation rate of 93%, Babson College in Wellesley, MA, is a standout for students interested in entrepreneurship and business. The school emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world applications, preparing graduates for the complexities of the business world.

17% accepted 93% graduate $123,938 earnings

Babson's full profile

Bentley University

Waltham, MA · 4,474 students · Private nonprofit

Bentley University in Waltham, MA, attracts a solid student body with its strong focus on business and technology. The 88% graduation rate reflects a supportive environment, emphasizing both academic rigor and professional readiness for future careers.

45% accepted 88% graduate $120,959 earnings

Bentley's full profile

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA, is recognized for its rigorous academics and innovation, particularly in technology and the arts. With a graduation rate of 93%, the university provides a strong foundation for students aiming for competitive fields.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA, serves a vibrant community of learners with a remarkable 97% graduation rate. Known for its blend of liberal arts and professional education, Penn cultivates critical thinking and leadership skills among its diverse student body.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

Santa Clara University

Santa Clara, CA · 6,552 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 88%, Santa Clara University cultivates an environment where students are likely to complete their degrees. The school’s location in the heart of Silicon Valley creates unique opportunities for internships and jobs, making it a great pick for those interested in tech and innovation.

48% accepted 88% graduate $109,183 earnings

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA · 5,898 students · Private nonprofit

Lehigh University, with an 89% graduation rate, fosters a strong sense of community and academic rigor. Located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, it provides a rich campus life combined with a focus on engineering, business, and the arts, making it a versatile choice for many students.

26% accepted 89% graduate $105,584 earnings

Lehigh's full profile

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University is known for its impressive graduation rate of 95%, reflecting its strong support systems for students. Nestled in the scenic Finger Lakes region, it offers a blend of rigorous academics and vibrant campus life, appealing to those who thrive in a collaborative and dynamic environment.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

Stevens Institute of Technology

Hoboken, NJ · 4,222 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 88%, Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, NJ is a strong option for students interested in technology and engineering. The median earnings of $108,772 ten years after graduation suggest that graduates are well-prepared for high-paying careers right out of school. The location near New York City also adds to its appeal, providing students with access to a vibrant job market and numerous internship opportunities.

48% accepted 88% graduate $108,772 earnings

Stevens's full profile

Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA · 10,085 students · Private nonprofit

Boston College offers a compelling academic experience with a graduation rate of 91%, showing a strong commitment to student success. Set in a picturesque campus just outside of Boston, it provides not only rigorous academics but also a vibrant cultural scene that enhances the student experience, particularly for those interested in liberal arts and social sciences.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

#10

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta is a public university with a 93% graduation rate, making it a solid choice for students pursuing a STEM education. The median earnings of $102,772 ten years after graduation reflect the high demand for graduates in engineering and technology sectors. The vibrant campus culture and strong industry connections offer students numerous opportunities for internships and real-world experience.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#11

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown University, located in Washington, DC, boasts an impressive 95% graduation rate, reflecting its commitment to student success. The school is known for its strong programs in international relations, law, and public policy, which prepare students for influential roles in various fields. The median earnings of $103,494 a decade after graduation illustrate the value of a Georgetown degree in the job market.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#12

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN · 8,818 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Notre Dame in Notre Dame, IN, boasts a remarkable 96% graduation rate, indicative of its supportive academic environment. Known for its strong programs in business, engineering, and the humanities, students here are well-equipped for a variety of career paths. Median earnings of $99,980 ten years after graduation highlight the long-term value of a Notre Dame degree in a competitive job market.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#13

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

With a small student body of just 1,388, Claremont McKenna College fosters close relationships between students and faculty, creating an engaging academic environment. A stunning 93% of students graduate, and they find themselves earning a median of $104,736 ten years after graduation, which reflects the value of the education here.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

#14

Villanova University

Villanova, PA · 6,938 students · Private nonprofit

Villanova University, located in suburban Philadelphia, has a vibrant campus community with nearly 7,000 students. The school maintains a strong graduation rate of 92%, and its graduates see median earnings of $100,423 a decade after finishing their studies, showcasing the economic potential of a Villanova degree.

27% accepted 92% graduate $100,423 earnings

Villanova's full profile

#15

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Troy, NY · 5,714 students · Private nonprofit

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, located in Troy, New York, is known for its strong emphasis on science and technology, attracting a diverse population of over 5,700 students. The graduation rate of 83% may be lower than some peers, but graduates still earn a median of $102,051 ten years after completing their degree, demonstrating the strong career pathways available.

63% accepted 83% graduate $102,051 earnings

Rensselaer's full profile

#16

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Washington and Lee University offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and a tight-knit community, supporting just under 1,900 students. With a remarkable graduation rate of 94%, it's clear this institution prioritizes student success, leading to median earnings of $94,810 ten years post-graduation, reflecting the strong outcomes for its graduates.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

#17

SUNY Maritime College

Throggs Neck, NY · 1,285 students · Public

Located in Throggs Neck, NY, SUNY Maritime College attracts students with a strong focus on maritime studies and engineering. With a 70% graduation rate, it offers a unique blend of academic rigor and practical training, preparing graduates for careers in a specialized field that can yield substantial returns.

72% accepted 70% graduate $95,951 earnings

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA · 20,443 students · Private nonprofit

In the heart of Los Angeles, the University of Southern California attracts a diverse body of students interested in a wide range of disciplines from the arts to engineering. With a 92% graduation rate, it is committed to producing graduates who are well-prepared for the demands of the workforce, leveraging its prime location and extensive alumni network for career opportunities.

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

#19

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · 17,326 students · Private nonprofit

Northeastern University in Boston is known for its co-op program, allowing students to gain real-world experience while studying. With a 90% graduation rate, students here are set up for success, having access to a wealth of resources in a vibrant urban environment that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship.

5% accepted 90% graduate $92,538 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

#20

Bucknell University

Lewisburg, PA · 3,876 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 86%, Bucknell University in Lewisburg, PA, cultivates an environment where students are supported to succeed. The median earnings of $93,807 at ten years post-graduation suggest that Bucknell graduates are well-positioned in the workforce, often landing rewarding careers in various fields.

29% accepted 86% graduate $93,807 earnings

Bucknell's full profile

#21

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University in Houston is a smaller private institution known for its close-knit community and high academic standards. With a remarkable 95% graduation rate, it cultivates an environment where students can excel both academically and socially, supported by faculty who prioritize student engagement and success.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

California State University Maritime Academy

Vallejo, CA · 804 students · Public

California State University Maritime Academy is a unique institution with a focus on maritime studies, attracting students interested in specialized careers. With a graduation rate of 63%, the academy prepares students for a variety of roles in the maritime industry, and the median earnings of $94,784 at ten years post-graduation highlight the strong career prospects available to graduates.

95% accepted 63% graduate $94,784 earnings

California's full profile

#23

George Washington University

Washington, DC · 11,182 students · Private nonprofit

George Washington University sits at the heart of the nation's capital, offering students unique access to internships and job opportunities in government and business. The university’s graduation rate of 85% reflects a supportive environment that encourages students to succeed, with a vibrant campus culture that emphasizes leadership and civic engagement.

47% accepted 85% graduate $90,873 earnings

George's full profile

#24

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, is known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life, boasting a graduation rate of 96%. The median earnings of $89,363 ten years after graduation indicate that students are well-prepared for successful careers across a range of industries, thanks in part to strong alumni networks and opportunities.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#25

Bryant University

Smithfield, RI · 3,194 students · Private nonprofit

Bryant University is known for its strong focus on business and entrepreneurship, attracting students who are ready to make their mark in the corporate world. With a graduation rate of 80%, it provides a supportive environment where students can engage in practical learning experiences that prepare them for real-world challenges.

65% accepted 80% graduate $90,008 earnings

Bryant's full profile

#26

Fairfield University

Fairfield, CT · 5,373 students · Private nonprofit

Fairfield University, located in Connecticut, cultivates a close-knit community with a student body of just over 5,300. The school has an 84% graduation rate, which speaks to the supportive environment that helps students succeed academically and socially, while median earnings of $88,794 at ten years post-graduation reflect the solid return on investment for graduates.

33% accepted 84% graduate $88,794 earnings

Fairfield's full profile

#27

University of San Francisco

San Francisco, CA · 5,287 students · Private nonprofit

San Francisco's vibrant energy permeates the University of San Francisco, where a 71% graduation rate reflects both the challenges and the rewards of its rigorous academic environment. The university's focus on social justice and community engagement resonates with many students, offering a unique educational experience that culminates in median earnings of $89,812 after ten years.

62% accepted 71% graduate $89,812 earnings

University's full profile

#28

Washington University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO · 7,857 students · Private nonprofit

Washington University in St. Louis offers a distinguished academic experience, backed by an impressive graduation rate of 94%. The campus is known for its collaborative atmosphere and strong emphasis on research, attracting students who are motivated and eager to engage deeply in their studies across various disciplines.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#29

Providence College

Providence, RI · 4,229 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Providence, RI, Providence College cultivates a close-knit academic environment with around 4,200 students. The school achieves an 87% graduation rate, reflecting its commitment to guiding students through their educational journey with support and resources.

51% accepted 87% graduate $87,054 earnings

Providence's full profile

#30

Milwaukee School of Engineering

Milwaukee, WI · 2,654 students · Private nonprofit

With a strong focus on engineering and technology, Milwaukee School of Engineering cultivates a hands-on learning environment that prepares students for success in their fields. Graduates see median earnings of $89,070 a decade after finishing their studies, underscoring the strong demand for their skills in the workforce.

59% accepted 69% graduate $89,070 earnings

Milwaukee's full profile

#31

Maine Maritime Academy

Castine, ME · 942 students · Public

Maine Maritime Academy offers a unique blend of maritime education and hands-on training, preparing students for careers in marine industries. With a graduation rate of 60%, students gain practical skills that lead to median earnings of $89,964 ten years after graduation, reflecting the value of its specialized programs.

54% accepted 60% graduate $89,964 earnings

Clarkson University

Potsdam, NY · 2,196 students · Private nonprofit

With a focus on engineering and business, Clarkson University in Potsdam, NY, serves a tight-knit community of just over 2,000 students. The 74% graduation rate reflects a supportive environment where engagement is encouraged, and students can thrive academically and socially.

77% accepted 74% graduate $89,696 earnings

Clarkson's full profile

#33

University of San Diego

San Diego, CA · 5,671 students · Private nonprofit

The University of San Diego is known for its commitment to academic excellence and a vibrant campus life. With an impressive graduation rate of 83%, students here are not only engaged in their studies but also benefit from a supportive community that fosters personal growth and success.

52% accepted 83% graduate $86,522 earnings

University's full profile

#34

Case Western Reserve University

Cleveland, OH · 6,437 students · Private nonprofit

Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH, is a place where academic excellence meets real-world application, evidenced by an impressive 87% graduation rate. Graduates earn a median income of $87,989 ten years after leaving the university, suggesting strong outcomes for students who invest in their education here, especially in fields like engineering, health sciences, and business.

37% accepted 87% graduate $87,989 earnings

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA · 33,068 students · Public

At UC Berkeley, students enter a vibrant academic community with a graduation rate of 93%. The university's location in the heart of the Bay Area allows for incredible opportunities, and the median earnings of $92,446 at ten years reflect the value of a Berkeley degree in a competitive job market.

11% accepted 93% graduate $92,446 earnings

University's full profile

#36

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

MIT's reputation for innovation and problem-solving attracts students eager to tackle complex challenges. Its remarkable 96% graduation rate and median earnings of $143,372 ten years after graduation reflect the institution's commitment to student success and robust career outcomes in science, technology, engineering, and math fields.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

#37

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, stands out as a hub of innovation and academic excellence. With a remarkable graduation rate of 92%, the university cultivates a culture of success, drawing in some of the brightest minds from around the globe.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

#38

Boston University

Boston, MA · 18,248 students · Private nonprofit

Boston University offers a vibrant urban campus experience, attracting nearly 18,250 students who seek both academic and cultural enrichment. With a graduation rate of 89%, students here are supported in achieving their degrees, which lead to median earnings of $83,238 within a decade after graduation, positioning graduates well in a competitive job market.

11% accepted 89% graduate $83,238 earnings

Boston's full profile

#39

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, CA · 21,996 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 86%, California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo has a strong reputation for helping students finish their degrees. Located in a picturesque coastal town, this university is known for its hands-on approach to learning, particularly in engineering and agriculture, which resonates with students who thrive in practical, real-world settings.

31% accepted 86% graduate $90,768 earnings

California's full profile

#40

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, VA · 30,923 students · Public

55% accepted 86% graduate $81,698 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#41

Loyola University Maryland

Baltimore, MD · 3,869 students · Private nonprofit

75% accepted 80% graduate $82,652 earnings

Loyola's full profile

#42

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 91%, Emory University cultivates a strong academic environment where students thrive. Located in Atlanta, a vibrant city rich in culture and opportunities, Emory is not just a place to study but a community to grow and connect with diverse peers, including 18% who receive Pell Grants. This environment fosters both personal and professional development, preparing students for success after graduation.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Fordham University

Bronx, NY · 10,512 students · Private nonprofit

59% accepted 81% graduate $85,569 earnings

Fordham's full profile

#44

New Jersey Institute of Technology

Newark, NJ · 9,019 students · Public

65% accepted 73% graduate $84,276 earnings

MCPHS University

Boston, MA · 3,451 students · Private nonprofit

With 85% of its students accepted, MCPHS University in Boston invites a diverse range of learners to explore its specialized programs in health sciences. The school's focus on practical, hands-on training prepares graduates for rewarding careers in a growing field, which is reflected in the impressive median earnings of $125,557 a decade after graduation.

85% accepted 63% graduate $125,557 earnings

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Albany, NY · 481 students · Private nonprofit

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences provides a focused education for those looking to enter the pharmacy and health professions. With a graduation rate of 68% and median earnings of $131,426 ten years after graduation, students can expect a supportive environment that prepares them for the workforce.

53% accepted 68% graduate $131,426 earnings

Albany's full profile

#47

Saint Joseph's University - Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA · 4,948 students · Private nonprofit

Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia is known for its welcoming atmosphere and strong commitment to student success, boasting a graduation rate of 79%. With median earnings of $86,881 after ten years, graduates find themselves well-positioned in their careers, navigating a dynamic job market thanks to a well-rounded education.

89% accepted 79% graduate $86,881 earnings

Pepperdine University

Malibu, CA · 3,553 students · Private nonprofit

63% accepted 84% graduate $82,939 earnings

Pepperdine's full profile

#49

New York University

New York, NY · 28,663 students · Private nonprofit

9% accepted 88% graduate $82,509 earnings

University of Portland

Portland, OR · 2,957 students · Private nonprofit

89% accepted 80% graduate $82,804 earnings

University's full profile

When we look closely at the data, we see a distinct difference between schools like Babson College and Santa Clara University. While Babson graduates earn an average of $123,938, Santa Clara's graduates earn $109,183. The difference in net price also plays a role; Babson's students take on $20,000 in debt compared to Santa Clara's $19,162. This illustrates how different financial commitments can lead to significantly different earning trajectories.

After reviewing these 50 schools, it's essential to think about what matters most for you. Consider the financial aspects, like debt and net price, alongside the school's location and overall fit for your career goals. A school that excels in earnings may also come with higher costs, so weigh these factors against your personal circumstances and aspirations to find the best match.

Ultimately, the path from college to a stable career often hinges on these decisions. A degree in accounting can lead to a secure future, and choosing the right school is a key step. One family might prioritize affordability and choose Bentley University, while another might invest more for a potential high return at Babson. Every decision counts in shaping a graduate's future.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[3]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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