Accounting at Colorado State University Pueblo

The estimated $26,320 in debt for this accounting program—based on the state median for similar programs at CSU Pueblo—pairs with first-year earnings of $54,213 to create a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49. That's better than the national debt median for accounting degrees ($25,000) paired with similar earnings. However, this picture comes with a significant red flag: earnings actually decline from year one to year four, dropping to $51,976. While some fluctuation is normal in small datasets, this suggests graduates may not be finding the career progression typically associated with accounting credentials.

Comparing this program to others in Colorado, CSU Pueblo's accounting graduates earn slightly above the state median ($53,893) and rank at the 60th percentile statewide—respectable but well behind programs like University of Denver ($67,392) or CSU Global ($61,648). The program sits right at the national median as well, which is perfectly adequate for an open-access institution serving a regional market. The concerning element isn't the starting salary but rather what happens next, as most accounting careers show steady earnings growth through the crucial early years when professionals gain experience and certifications like the CPA.

For a student committed to staying in Pueblo or southern Colorado, this program offers reasonable entry into accounting roles without crushing debt. But if your child is academically competitive and has geographic flexibility, programs that demonstrate clearer earnings trajectories may justify slightly higher costs or relocating for better career networks.