Analysis
Georgia Northwestern Technical College's accounting program stands out in the state, with first-year earnings of $39,265 ranking in the 80th percentile among Georgia programs—well above the state median of $26,968 and nearly matching top-performer Gwinnett Technical College. These graduates also earn more than the typical accounting associate's degree holder nationally ($37,000), suggesting the program delivers competitive preparation despite serving a significant population of Pell grant recipients.
Based on comparable programs nationally, graduates likely carry around $15,979 in debt—yielding a manageable 0.41 debt-to-earnings ratio that's notably better than many accounting programs. The actual debt for Georgia programs tends to run slightly lower (around $13,557), which could mean the true burden here is even lighter. Either way, this debt level represents roughly five months of first-year earnings, making it reasonably payable for someone starting at nearly $40,000.
For parents weighing community college options in northwest Georgia, this program combines strong earning potential with moderate debt estimates. The caveat is that the debt figure comes from national patterns rather than this school's actual graduates, so individual outcomes will vary based on how much students need to borrow. Still, the strong earnings performance—outpacing most Georgia competitors by significant margins—suggests graduates enter the job market well-positioned to handle whatever education costs they've incurred.
Where Georgia Northwestern Technical College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting associates's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Georgia Northwestern Technical College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia
Accounting associates's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (32 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $3,132 | $39,265 | — | $15,979* | — | |
| $3,356 | $40,820 | $38,181 | $17,919* | 0.44 | |
| $3,122 | $28,346 | $31,769 | —* | — | |
| $3,162 | $26,968 | $34,722 | —* | — | |
| $11,330 | $26,189 | $23,396 | $13,557* | 0.52 | |
| $11,210 | $26,189 | $23,396 | $13,557* | 0.52 | |
| 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 Georgia Northwestern Technical College, approximately 39% 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 23 graduates with reported earnings and 10 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.