Accounting at Clover Park Technical College

An estimated debt load of $16,000 positions this program below both the national and Washington state medians for associate degrees in accounting, which typically come with $19,354 and $21,207 respectively. Combined with first-year earnings that peer programs nationally suggest hover around $37,000, that's a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.43—well within the manageable range. The comparison to other Washington community colleges is revealing: similar programs at Spokane and Tacoma Community Colleges show actual first-year earnings between $29,000-$33,000, which would still support comfortable debt repayment at this estimated borrowing level.

The limited data here reflects a small graduate cohort rather than any red flag about program quality, and the fundamentals look solid. Accounting associate degrees offer clear career pathways into bookkeeping, payroll, and accounts payable roles—positions with steady demand and room for advancement. The relatively low cost of entry matters more in this field than in many others, since accounting certifications and experience often count as much as the degree itself.

For anxious parents, this represents a low-risk investment: even if actual outcomes fall somewhat short of these national estimates, the modest debt burden keeps the downside contained. The path from associate degree to stable employment in accounting is well-established, and starting with under $16,000 in debt gives your child flexibility to either enter the workforce immediately or continue toward a bachelor's degree without crushing financial pressure.