Accounting at Emporia State University

Emporia State's accounting program starts graduates at just $41K—nearly $13K below both national and Kansas medians for accounting majors. While that 25th percentile ranking within Kansas sounds like middle-of-the-pack, it actually means three-quarters of accounting programs in the state deliver better initial outcomes. Even with the program's small cohort size (under 30 graduates), the gap is striking: graduates from Kansas State and Wichita State start nearly $20K higher.

The positive story here is trajectory. Earnings jump 45% by year four, reaching $59K—a respectable climb that brings graduates much closer to peer performance. The modest $20K debt load (well below state and national medians) helps compensate for the slower start, keeping the financial burden manageable even during those lower-earning early years. For a student who plans to stay in accounting long-term and values Emporia's 98% admission rate and accessible environment, this path could work.

However, parents should recognize they're accepting a meaningful earnings disadvantage right out of the gate. That first year or two of lower pay won't be offset by the debt savings alone, particularly when stronger Kansas programs offer similar debt levels with substantially higher starting salaries. If your child can gain admission to Kansas State, Wichita State, or even Fort Hays State, those options deliver better immediate returns on roughly the same investment.