Median Earnings (1yr)
$61,648
79th percentile (60th in CO)
Median Debt
$34,167
37% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.55
Manageable
Sample Size
259
Adequate data

Analysis

Colorado State University Global's online accounting program produces graduates earning $61,648 in their first year—nearly $8,000 above the state median and placing it second among Colorado's accounting programs, just behind University of Denver. With debt of $34,167, students borrow roughly the Colorado average while earning significantly more, creating a favorable 0.55 debt-to-earnings ratio that beats most programs nationwide.

The 6% earnings growth to $65,218 by year four isn't spectacular, but the first-year salary advantage holds steady, keeping graduates well ahead of their peers. This pattern makes sense for an online program serving working adults who often leverage existing employment for raises rather than switching careers. At the 60th percentile statewide, the program sits comfortably in Colorado's top half despite competition from traditional universities charging much higher tuition.

For families seeking accounting credentials without relocating or paying campus premiums, this represents solid value. The accessible admission (93% acceptance rate) doesn't compromise outcomes—graduates out-earn peers at more selective Colorado schools. The debt level is manageable given first-year salaries, and students avoid the hidden costs of on-campus attendance. If your child needs flexibility to work while studying or wants to stay employed, this program delivers competitive Colorado wages without the debt burden typical of private universities.

Where Colorado State University Global Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally

Colorado State University GlobalOther accounting programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Colorado State University Global graduates compare to all programs nationally

Colorado State University Global graduates earn $62k, placing them in the 79th percentile of all accounting bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Colorado

Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Colorado (10 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Colorado State University Global$61,648$65,218$34,1670.55
University of Denver$67,392$80,927$21,2880.32
Regis University$58,811$65,506$33,6680.57
Colorado State University Pueblo$54,213$51,976——
Metropolitan State University of Denver$54,030$64,453$26,3200.49
Colorado Christian University$53,756$54,988$41,8480.78
National Median$53,694—$25,0000.47

Other Accounting Programs in Colorado

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Colorado schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
University of Denver
Denver
$59,340$67,392$21,288
Regis University
Denver
$43,980$58,811$33,668
Colorado State University Pueblo
Pueblo
$9,401$54,213—
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Denver
$10,780$54,030$26,320
Colorado Christian University
Lakewood
$39,266$53,756$41,848

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 Colorado State University Global, approximately 24% 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.

Sample Size: Based on 259 graduates with reported earnings and 370 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.