Analysis
An accounting certificate with an estimated debt load of $8,507 stands out in Georgia, where similar programs typically leave students owing nearly three times that amount at $24,252. Based on comparable programs across the state, first-year earnings around $36,264 suggest a manageable debt burdenβyou're looking at roughly three months of gross pay to clear the credential's cost. That's unusually lean for professional training, though it's worth noting this estimate comes from just four other Georgia accounting certificate programs, not tracked outcomes from Gwinnett College-Lilburn itself.
The earnings estimate aligns with Georgia's median for this credential and actually edges above the national figure of $31,684, positioning graduates in competitive territory for entry-level accounting work. With 82% of students receiving Pell grants, this program serves a population where keeping debt low matters enormously. The estimated 0.23 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests the math could work for someone seeking quick entry into bookkeeping or accounts payable roles without the time and expense of a bachelor's degree.
The caveat here is real: small graduate cohorts mean we're relying on peer program data rather than actual outcomes from this school. If you're considering this path, verify with Gwinnett directly what roles their certificate graduates actually land and whether the abbreviated timeline (versus an associate degree) limits advancement options in accounting firms or corporate finance departments.
Where Gwinnett College-Lilburn Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting certificate's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia
Accounting certificate's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (30 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $10,850 | $36,264* | β | $8,507* | β | |
| $11,330 | $36,264* | $17,679 | β* | β | |
| $11,210 | $36,264* | $17,679 | β* | β | |
| $11,210 | $36,264* | $17,679 | β* | β | |
| $13,420 | $31,620* | $26,473 | $24,252* | 0.77 | |
| National Median | β | $31,684* | β | $13,047* | 0.41 |
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 Gwinnett College-Lilburn, approximately 82% 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 4 similar programs in GA. Actual outcomes may vary.