Accounting at Bradley University

Bradley University's accounting program launches graduates into solid careers, with first-year earnings of $65,842—well above both national and Illinois medians. While it doesn't quite match the state's top performers like U of I Urbana-Champaign ($74,731) or Illinois Wesleyan ($70,831), it sits comfortably in the 60th percentile among Illinois accounting programs and ranks even higher nationally at the 90th percentile. The roughly $27,000 in debt is reasonable, translating to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41, meaning graduates earn more than twice what they owe—a manageable starting point for most families.

What makes this particularly appealing is the steady earnings trajectory. Four years out, median pay climbs to $72,938, an 11% increase that suggests the degree opens doors to progressive career growth. This isn't just an accounting clerk credential; graduates appear to be moving into roles with real advancement potential. The moderate sample size means results are fairly reliable, though not based on hundreds of data points.

For families weighing the investment, Bradley offers a straightforward value proposition: pay roughly the national average in debt, earn substantially more than average, and benefit from a respected regional business network in the Midwest. It's not the flashiest option in Illinois, but it consistently delivers what accounting students need most—strong starting salaries and clear career momentum.