Analysis
The economics for an accounting associate's look more manageable here than at many California peers. With estimated debt around $16,000—roughly $3,400 below the state median for these programs—and first-year earnings projected near $37,000 based on national patterns, graduates would face a debt burden of about 43% of their starting salary. That's workable territory, though the slim data available means there's real uncertainty about whether College of the Siskiyous' specific outcomes match these broader trends.
California accounting associate's programs show surprising earnings variation—from around $35,000 to over $41,000 at schools with reported data—which suggests local job markets and employer connections matter considerably. The estimated figures here land squarely in the middle, neither standout nor concerning. The lower debt projection is the more concrete advantage, particularly for a rural community college where cost control often matters more than marginal earnings differences.
For families prioritizing affordability in accounting training, the estimated debt level makes this program worth serious consideration. But recognize you're making this decision with incomplete information about actual graduate outcomes. If your student has flexibility, comparing this to programs with reported data—particularly community colleges in regions where they plan to work—would reduce uncertainty about the return on investment.
Where College of the Siskiyous Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Accounting associates's programs at peer institutions in California (110 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $1,444 | $37,001* | — | $15,979* | — | |
| — | $41,351* | — | $17,375* | 0.42 | |
| $1,364 | $34,604* | — | —* | — | |
| 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 College of the Siskiyous, approximately 28% 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 national median of 118 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.