Analysis
Central Ohio Technical College's accounting associate's program suggests a manageable entry point into the field, though the figures here come from comparable Ohio programs rather than this school's specific outcomes. Based on the state median for similar programs, first-year earnings around $35,700 would leave graduates with debt roughly half their annual income—a reasonable starting position. The four-year figure of $39,100 shows modest but steady growth, and notably, this earnings trajectory appears to be actual reported data for this program.
What's worth noting is that Ohio's accounting associate's market shows considerable range. Top community college programs in the state are producing graduates who earn $44,500 or more in their first year—nearly $9,000 above the state median. This spread suggests that employer connections and program reputation matter significantly in this field. The estimated debt of $18,500 sits comfortably below both the state and national medians, which helps offset the fact that earnings estimates here land at the lower end of the spectrum.
For parents evaluating this program, the core question is whether Central Ohio Tech's specific outcomes align with its peers or whether it outperforms them through regional employer relationships in the Newark area. The debt load is conservative enough that even if earnings come in at these estimated levels, graduates should be able to manage payments. However, if your student is mobile and considering multiple Ohio community colleges, programs with documented higher earnings would offer clearer value for a similar investment.
Where Central Ohio Technical College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting associates's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central Ohio Technical College | — | $39,103 | — |
| Cincinnati State Technical and Community College | $35,703 | $49,894 | +40% |
| Cuyahoga Community College District | $44,532 | $46,606 | +5% |
| Bryant & Stratton College-Parma | $36,958 | $38,715 | +5% |
| Ohio Business College-Sheffield | $34,785 | $36,239 | +4% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Accounting associates's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (57 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $5,136 | $35,703* | $39,103 | $18,516* | — | |
| $3,736 | $44,532* | $46,606 | $15,931* | 0.36 | |
| $4,670 | $38,671* | $35,917 | $19,455* | 0.50 | |
| $19,542 | $36,958* | $38,715 | $26,291* | 0.71 | |
| $5,400 | $35,703* | $49,894 | $18,516* | 0.52 | |
| $9,385 | $34,785* | $36,239 | $32,361* | 0.93 | |
| National Median | — | $37,000* | — | $19,354* | 0.52 |
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 Central Ohio Technical College, approximately 26% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 7 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.