Analysis
A debt load around $22,750 for accounting credentials isn't alarming on its face—similar Texas programs typically produce first-year earnings near $49,400, putting the debt-to-earnings ratio at a manageable 0.46. That's roughly half a year's salary, which most financial advisors would consider reasonable territory for a bachelor's degree that leads to clear career paths in bookkeeping, tax preparation, and corporate finance.
The challenge is understanding where Amberton's program actually sits within Texas's competitive accounting landscape. The state's top programs—UT Austin, Texas A&M, SMU—report first-year earnings in the $67,000-$72,000 range, roughly 40% higher than the typical mid-tier program. These aren't just elite names; they reflect genuine employer preferences and recruiting pipelines that translate to significantly different starting positions. Without Amberton's actual outcomes data, you're betting on whether this private university in Garland delivers returns closer to the state median or falls below it.
For a working adult seeking flexibility or career advancement—Amberton's likely student profile—the estimated debt level won't cripple repayment prospects if earnings land anywhere near comparable programs. But prospective students should directly ask the admissions office about graduate placement rates, recruiting relationships with major firms, and CPA exam pass rates before committing. The difference between a $49,000 start and a $35,000 one fundamentally changes whether this investment pays off quickly or slowly.
Where Amberton University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (67 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | $49,406* | — | $22,759* | — | |
| $57,220 | $72,031* | $78,532 | $17,778* | 0.25 | |
| $64,460 | $68,643* | $77,801 | $15,850* | 0.23 | |
| $54,844 | $68,187* | $80,617 | $20,500* | 0.30 | |
| $11,678 | $68,082* | $78,482 | $19,462* | 0.29 | |
| $13,099 | $67,186* | $84,502 | $17,641* | 0.26 | |
| 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 Amberton University, approximately 23% 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 43 similar programs in TX. Actual outcomes may vary.