Median Earnings (1yr)
$43,708
14th percentile (25th in VA)
Median Debt
$27,000
8% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.62
Manageable
Sample Size
19
Limited data

Analysis

Averett's accounting graduates earn roughly $10,000 less than the typical Virginia accounting graduate—landing in just the 25th percentile statewide. That's a significant gap when you consider that Virginia's median is already close to the national benchmark. While the debt load of $27,000 sits near national norms, you're paying similar amounts for notably lower returns compared to other in-state options like James Madison ($71,563) or Virginia Tech ($70,303).

The small sample size here—fewer than 30 graduates—means these numbers could shift considerably year to year, but the pattern is concerning. Starting at $43,708 puts graduates well behind peers from other Virginia programs, which matters because accounting is typically valued for its reliable career outcomes. The 0.62 debt-to-earnings ratio isn't catastrophic, but it's less favorable when earnings lag this far behind state and national medians.

For families comparing Virginia schools, this program's value proposition is hard to justify. Unless Averett offers unique advantages like location proximity or a particularly supportive environment your child needs, the earnings gap suggests looking elsewhere. The state's public universities deliver substantially stronger returns at competitive or lower costs.

Where Averett University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally

Averett UniversityOther accounting programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Averett University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Averett University graduates earn $44k, placing them in the 14th percentile of all accounting bachelors programs nationally.

Compare to Similar Programs in Virginia

Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Virginia (32 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Averett University$43,708—$27,0000.62
Washington and Lee University$81,625$101,332$16,7500.21
James Madison University$71,563$81,138$22,4840.31
University of Richmond$71,508$86,270$20,7570.29
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University$70,303$82,394$18,5000.26
George Mason University$67,291$80,027$21,5000.32
National Median$53,694—$25,0000.47

Other Accounting Programs in Virginia

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Virginia schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Washington and Lee University
Lexington
$64,525$81,625$16,750
James Madison University
Harrisonburg
$13,576$71,563$22,484
University of Richmond
University of Richmond
$62,600$71,508$20,757
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg
$15,478$70,303$18,500
George Mason University
Fairfax
$13,815$67,291$21,500

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 Averett University, approximately 39% 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.

Sample Size: Based on 19 graduates with reported earnings and 30 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.