Accounting at California State University-San Bernardino

Cal State San Bernardino's accounting program starts at a concerning $40,688—placing it in the bottom 10% of California accounting programs and well below both the state median of $62,202 and national average of $53,694. For a field known for strong entry-level prospects, this initial salary creates real challenges even though debt remains manageable at $14,500.

The 33% earnings jump to $54,001 by year four suggests graduates eventually find their footing, but they're still earning $8,000 less than comparable California grads. Within California's competitive accounting market, this program ranks near the bottom while schools like Santa Clara and USC place students into roles earning $70,000+. The nearly open admission (98%) and high Pell grant percentage (57%) indicate the school serves students who may lack alternatives, but that doesn't erase the opportunity cost of starting significantly behind peers.

The low debt helps—at $14,500, your child won't face crushing payments. But they'll spend years catching up financially while peers from stronger programs advance faster. If your child has admission to other California public universities with stronger accounting placements, that's likely the better path. If this is the only option, they should plan on passing the CPA exam quickly and pursuing jobs beyond San Bernardino to overcome the initial salary gap.