Accounting at City College-Hollywood

Similar accounting associate's programs in Florida typically produce first-year earnings around $39,000—right at the state median and slightly above the national benchmark of $37,000. For City College-Hollywood's cohort, estimated debt of $23,800 creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.61, meaning graduates would owe about seven months of pre-tax income. That's manageable compared to programs that leave students owing a full year's salary or more, though it's worth noting the school serves an entirely Pell-eligible student body, where even moderate debt can strain tight budgets.

The challenge lies in the competitive landscape. Top-performing Florida programs like Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale show earnings potential reaching $48,000—about 23% higher than the state average. Whether City College's actual outcomes land near the median or lag behind matters significantly when you're balancing $24,000 in loans. Accounting credentials generally offer steady employment prospects, but the entry-level earnings aren't spectacular, making that initial debt burden more consequential than in higher-paying fields.

Given the 100% admission rate and universally Pell-eligible student body, this program likely serves students with limited alternatives. The estimated numbers suggest reasonable but not exceptional value—if the actual outcomes align with peer schools, graduates should be able to manage repayment, though not comfortably. Before committing, try to connect with recent graduates or the financial aid office to understand what this cohort's real-world outcomes look like.