Analysis
Georgia College's accounting program sits at an interesting crossroads: it matches the state median for graduate earnings while delivering notably lower debt than most Georgia competitors. With graduates owing $22,425—about $3,500 less than the typical Georgia accounting student—the manageable debt load helps offset earnings that trail stronger state programs by $7,000-$14,000.
The program ranks in the 60th percentile among Georgia accounting programs, placing it squarely in the middle tier behind flagships like UGA and larger urban campuses like Kennesaw State. Starting pay of $50,583 falls slightly below the national accounting median, and four-year earnings of $59,578 remain about $5,000 behind the national 75th percentile. The 18% earnings growth is respectable but not exceptional for accounting, where professionals typically see steady advancement in their first career years.
The value proposition here is straightforward: you're getting a state school accounting credential at a reasonable price, not a launching pad to Big Four firms or major corporate finance roles. The 0.44 debt-to-earnings ratio is solid—graduates can realistically manage their loans on typical accountant salaries. For students targeting mid-market firms or accounting roles in Georgia's smaller cities rather than Atlanta's competitive market, this program delivers functional preparation without excessive financial burden. Just understand you'll likely start several rungs below peers from UGA or Georgia State.
Where Georgia College & State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Georgia College & State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia College & State University | $50,583 | $59,578 | +18% |
| Oglethorpe University | $56,121 | $77,243 | +38% |
| University of Georgia | $64,058 | $76,298 | +19% |
| Georgia Southern University | $44,094 | $66,265 | +50% |
| Kennesaw State University | $57,814 | $65,652 | +14% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (38 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,998 | $50,583 | $59,578 | $22,425 | 0.44 | |
| $11,180 | $64,058 | $76,298 | $23,250 | 0.36 | |
| $5,786 | $57,814 | $65,652 | $26,000 | 0.45 | |
| $45,806 | $56,121 | $77,243 | $26,000 | 0.46 | |
| $8,478 | $55,761 | $62,731 | $25,500 | 0.46 | |
| $17,488 | $54,264 | $54,099 | $54,380 | 1.00 | |
| National Median | — | $53,694 | — | $25,000 | 0.47 |
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 Georgia College & State University, approximately 16% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 32 graduates with reported earnings and 30 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.