Analysis
At Eagle Gate College-Murray, students pursuing an Associate's in Accounting face an estimated debt load of $23,823—about 23% higher than the national median for this credential. While the program's estimated first-year earnings of $37,000 align closely with typical outcomes for accounting associate degrees nationwide, the elevated debt creates a tighter financial picture. With nearly half the student body receiving Pell grants, this price premium matters considerably for families already stretching to afford college.
The 0.64 debt-to-earnings ratio sits in workable territory—graduates would need to dedicate roughly 8 months of their first year's salary to cover their debt. However, this assumes the national earnings pattern holds true for Murray graduates, which remains uncertain given the lack of school-specific data. Utah's accounting job market can vary significantly between the Wasatch Front and more rural areas, and starting salaries at smaller firms often trail the national average.
For families considering this program, the key question is whether Eagle Gate's specific value—perhaps in job placement support or flexible scheduling—justifies paying $4,500 more in debt than peer programs typically require. Before committing, parents should press the school for concrete placement rates and compare tuition with Utah's community colleges, which may offer similar credentials at substantially lower cost.
Where Eagle Gate College-Murray Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Accounting associates's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $16,491 | $37,001* | — | $23,823* | — | |
| $2,550 | $58,469* | $44,916 | $22,215* | 0.38 | |
| $8,216 | $52,576* | $50,545 | $24,956* | 0.47 | |
| $31,168 | $52,576* | $50,545 | $24,956* | 0.47 | |
| $5,050 | $49,685* | $48,712 | —* | — | |
| $6,270 | $48,832* | — | $19,254* | 0.39 | |
| 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 Eagle Gate College-Murray, approximately 48% 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.