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
Earnings Distribution
How Averett University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Virginia
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Virginia (32 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $38,550 | $43,708 | — | $27,000 | 0.62 | |
| $64,525 | $81,625 | $101,332 | $16,750 | 0.21 | |
| $13,576 | $71,563 | $81,138 | $22,484 | 0.31 | |
| $62,600 | $71,508 | $86,270 | $20,757 | 0.29 | |
| $15,478 | $70,303 | $82,394 | $18,500 | 0.26 | |
| $13,815 | $67,291 | $80,027 | $21,500 | 0.32 | |
| 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 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.