Accounting at Beaufort County Community College

Based on comparable accounting programs in North Carolina, this associate degree appears positioned to deliver solid early returns. The estimated $44,616 first-year earnings matches the state median and sits well above the $37,000 national benchmark, while the projected $15,979 in debt comes in substantially lower than both state and national norms. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36 suggests manageable repayment—graduates would owe roughly four months of pre-tax income.

The uncertainty here matters, though. These figures come from peer programs rather than tracked outcomes from Beaufort County's own graduates, and actual results could vary. The state's accounting programs show a wide spread, with first-year earnings ranging from about $33,000 to $45,000 even among comparable community colleges. Location plays a role too—accounting jobs in Washington, NC may offer different opportunities than those in Charlotte or the Research Triangle.

For families weighing this path, the fundamentals look promising: lower estimated debt than typical for this credential, earnings projections that align with stronger North Carolina programs, and a field with clear employment pathways. The 31% Pell grant rate suggests the college serves students where affordability matters. Just recognize you're banking on estimates rather than a proven track record for this specific program.