Accounting at Davenport University

The four-year earnings figure of $49,931 tells a more complete story than the initial $36,181 estimate. While similar programs in Michigan suggest first-year earnings around $36,000—putting grads roughly at the national median—the substantial jump to nearly $50,000 by year four indicates strong career progression in accounting. The $22,830 in debt sits above both the state median ($17,621) and national median ($19,354), but with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.63, graduates should be able to manage payments even in that first year when earnings are lowest.

What's particularly interesting here is how Davenport's graduates appear to accelerate past their starting point. That 38% earnings increase over four years suggests the credential opens doors to actual accounting positions with advancement potential, not just bookkeeping roles. Oakland Community College produces stronger starting salaries among Michigan peers, but if you're committed to a four-year institution, Davenport's longer-term outcomes look solid for an associate's program.

The practical calculation: even at the estimated starting salary, you're looking at manageable debt repayment that gets easier as earnings climb. If your student plans to work while pursuing a bachelor's degree eventually, this creates a viable pathway. Just know you're paying a premium compared to Michigan's community college options, where debt loads run $5,000 lower for similar early earnings.