Analysis
North Carolina accounting programs reveal a significant earnings spread, with Greensboro College's estimated outcomes clustering near the state median while top performers like Elon and NC State push considerably higher. Based on comparable accounting programs across the state, first-year earnings around $48,500 would place a graduate firmly in the middle of the pack—substantially behind what elite in-state options deliver, but tracking with typical outcomes for this credential in North Carolina. The estimated debt load of roughly $26,000 aligns closely with both state and national norms for accounting degrees.
The 0.54 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests manageable repayment, particularly for an accounting career where licensing and experience typically drive steady income growth beyond that first year. However, the $21,000 earnings gap compared to Elon graduates matters: that's real money that compounds over a career. For families weighing this program, the question becomes whether Greensboro College's environment—including its 92% admission rate and strong Pell enrollment suggesting accessible entry—offers advantages that justify accepting middle-tier outcomes when more selective public universities in the state historically produce better-earning accounting graduates.
The limited data here means you're placing a bet on similarity rather than certainty. If your student thrives in smaller settings and needs accessible admissions, this program's estimated financials don't raise alarms. But if they can access UNC system schools or similar alternatives, the data from those programs tells a clearer, stronger story about post-graduation prospects.
Where Greensboro College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in North Carolina
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in North Carolina (37 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $20,400 | $48,489* | — | $25,982* | — | |
| $44,536 | $69,764* | $87,359 | $20,000* | 0.29 | |
| $8,895 | $56,606* | $70,576 | $20,946* | 0.37 | |
| $7,541 | $55,671* | $67,922 | $23,262* | 0.42 | |
| $19,500 | $55,224* | $60,099 | $25,982* | 0.47 | |
| $7,461 | $53,705* | $55,852 | $22,612* | 0.42 | |
| 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 Greensboro College, approximately 45% 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 21 similar programs in NC. Actual outcomes may vary.