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Accounting and Related Services at CUNY Queens College

Credential: Bachelor's | State: NY

Median Earnings (1yr post-grad): $45,158 | Annual Completions: 337

Queens College Accounting: Solid Career Launchpad with Strong Long-Term Earning Potential

Program Analysis

The Bachelor's degree in Accounting and Related Services (CIP 5203) at CUNY Queens College equips students with a robust foundation in financial principles, accounting practices, and business law. You'll delve into areas such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, auditing, taxation, and business analytics. This program is designed to cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail, essential for navigating the complexities of the financial world. Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles in public accounting firms, corporations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. Common career paths include Staff Accountant, Auditor, Tax Preparer, Forensic Accountant, and Financial Analyst. Entry-level salaries for accounting graduates in New York can range from $45,000 to $60,000, with median earnings around $45,158 one year after graduation according to recent data. With experience, mid-career professionals can expect to earn $65,000 to $90,000, and senior-level positions like Controller or Chief Financial Officer can command salaries well over $100,000. The return on investment (ROI) for this degree is generally strong, especially considering the relatively moderate cost of tuition at CUNY institutions compared to private universities. While the initial median earnings are modest, the upward mobility and earning potential over a career are significant. The demand for skilled accounting professionals remains consistently strong, driven by the need for financial compliance, reporting, and strategic financial management across all industries. Trends like increased regulation, data analytics, and cybersecurity in finance further enhance the long-term career prospects for accounting graduates. To maximize your career potential, consider pursuing professional certifications such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA) after graduation, and actively seek internships during your studies to gain practical experience and build your professional network.

Career Paths

Graduates of Accounting and Related Services at CUNY Queens College can pursue the following career paths:

  • Staff Accountant. Median salary: $55,000, Strong growth outlook.
  • Auditor. Median salary: $65,000, Strong growth outlook.
  • Tax Preparer. Median salary: $50,000, Moderate growth outlook.
  • Financial Analyst. Median salary: $70,000, Strong growth outlook.
  • Forensic Accountant. Median salary: $75,000, Strong growth outlook.

Skills Gained

Key skills developed in this program:

  • Financial Accounting Principles
  • Taxation Laws and Compliance
  • Auditing Procedures
  • Financial Statement Analysis
  • Business Law Fundamentals

Frequently Asked Questions about Accounting and Related Services at CUNY Queens College

Is Accounting and Related Services. at CUNY Queens College worth it?

Yes, the Accounting and Related Services program at CUNY Queens College offers a strong value proposition. With a median earning of $45,158 one year post-graduation, it provides a solid starting point for a financially rewarding career. The demand for accounting professionals remains consistently high across various sectors, ensuring good job prospects. Furthermore, the upward earning potential is significant, with mid-career professionals often earning $65,000-$90,000 and senior roles commanding much higher salaries. Given the relatively affordable tuition at CUNY, the return on investment is favorable, making it a worthwhile educational pursuit for aspiring accountants.

What jobs can I get with a Accounting and Related Services. degree?

A Bachelor's degree in Accounting and Related Services from CUNY Queens College opens doors to a wide array of roles. You can pursue positions such as Staff Accountant, responsible for daily financial transactions and record-keeping, often earning an entry-level salary around $55,000. As an Auditor, you'd examine financial records for accuracy and compliance, with median salaries around $65,000. Other common paths include Tax Preparer ($50,000 median), Financial Analyst ($70,000 median), and the specialized field of Forensic Accountant ($75,000 median), investigating financial fraud. Many graduates also advance into management roles like Controller or Chief Financial Officer.

How much do Accounting and Related Services. graduates earn?

Accounting and Related Services graduates from CUNY Queens College show promising earning potential. One year after graduation, the median earnings are reported at $45,158. However, this is just the beginning. Entry-level positions typically range from $45,000 to $60,000. With a few years of experience, accountants can expect their salaries to increase significantly, often reaching the $65,000 to $90,000 range for mid-career professionals. Senior roles, such as accounting managers or controllers, can command salaries exceeding $100,000 annually. Pursuing certifications like the CPA can further boost earning capacity.

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Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.