Accounting at Chandler-Gilbert Community College

An estimated debt load of $16,000 for an associate's degree in accounting suggests reasonable borrowing discipline, though comparable programs nationally typically see graduates taking on closer to $19,000. The $37,000 first-year earnings figure—drawn from national peers since this program's cohort is too small to report publicly—falls right at the national median but slightly below Arizona's typical $38,000 for similar programs. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.43 means graduates would owe less than half their first-year salary, a manageable starting point for an entry-level credential.

What matters here is whether an associate's degree provides enough traction in Arizona's accounting market. Programs at nearby Pima Community College and University of Phoenix produce similar earnings, suggesting the credential itself opens doors to bookkeeping, accounts payable, and tax preparation roles. The relatively low Pell grant participation (11%) may indicate a student body with more financial resources or attending part-time while working, which could affect completion patterns and job placement differently than traditional students.

For parents, this program represents a lower-stakes bet: the estimated debt is modest enough that even if earnings disappoint, repayment won't cripple a household budget. The real question is whether your student plans to stop at the associate's or continue toward a bachelor's—many accounting employers increasingly prefer the four-year credential for advancement.