Analysis
Based on comparable accounting programs in North Carolina, this associate degree suggests a solid financial foundation—estimated first-year earnings around $44,600 place it near the state median and well above the $37,000 national benchmark. The estimated debt load of roughly $16,000 is notably lower than both the state median ($21,000) and national median ($19,400) for similar programs, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36. That means graduates would owe roughly four months of their first year's salary, which is favorable for a two-year credential.
What makes this calculation particularly meaningful is how North Carolina's accounting job market appears to reward associate degree holders more generously than the national average. Programs across the state cluster in the $33,000-$45,000 range for first-year earnings, suggesting consistent employer demand for this credential level. The lower estimated debt amplifies this advantage—if the actual figures track with peer programs, graduates could potentially pay off their loans within a year or two of focused repayment.
The uncertainty here stems from small graduate cohorts, not program quality issues. For parents weighing this investment, the estimated financial picture suggests this could be a practical path into accounting work without the four-year price tag, assuming your student plans to work in North Carolina where the credential appears valued. Confirm current tuition costs and verify the program maintains employer connections in the Triad region.
Where Davidson-Davie Community College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in North Carolina
Accounting associates's programs at peer institutions in North Carolina (52 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $1,978 | $44,616* | — | $15,979* | — | |
| $2,792 | $45,092* | — | —* | — | |
| $2,336 | $44,616* | $43,263 | $20,953* | 0.47 | |
| $2,524 | $32,979* | — | —* | — | |
| 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 Davidson-Davie Community College, approximately 30% 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 median of 3 similar programs in NC. Actual outcomes may vary.