Analysis
Howard University's accounting program appears positioned in the middle tier of DC options, with comparable programs in the district suggesting first-year earnings around $65,381βnotably above the national median of $53,694 but trailing Georgetown and GWU by $20,000-$25,000. The estimated debt of roughly $25,000 creates a manageable 0.38 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe about five months' salary.
What's encouraging here is the four-year trajectory: the reported $75,107 figure shows meaningful income growth and suggests accounting graduates gain traction in DC's robust professional services market. That $10,000 jump between years one and four is substantial and puts Howard graduates closer to peers at Catholic University. For a program serving 41% Pell-eligible students at a selective HBCU (35% admission rate), these outcomes suggest the degree creates genuine career mobility.
The caveat is that we're working with estimates derived from other DC accounting programs, not Howard's actual graduate outcomes. If you're comparing Howard to Georgetown or GWU, understand you're looking at a different value equationβlower debt for somewhat lower early earnings, but with strong mid-career momentum. For families weighing Howard's reputation and network against pricier alternatives, this estimated profile suggests the accounting degree could deliver solid professional credentials without excessive financial risk.
Where Howard University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Howard University | β | $75,107 | β |
| Georgetown University | $89,564 | $127,971 | +43% |
| George Washington University | $69,151 | $89,287 | +29% |
| The Catholic University of America | $69,915 | $82,248 | +18% |
| Strayer University-District of Columbia | $52,373 | $56,398 | +8% |
Compare to Similar Programs in District of Columbia
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in District of Columbia (11 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $33,344 | $65,381* | $75,107 | $24,875* | β | |
| $65,081 | $89,564* | $127,971 | $17,500* | 0.20 | |
| $55,834 | $69,915* | $82,248 | $25,725* | 0.37 | |
| $64,990 | $69,151* | $89,287 | $24,875* | 0.36 | |
| $6,152 | $61,610* | β | $32,160* | 0.52 | |
| $13,920 | $52,373* | $56,398 | $54,989* | 1.05 | |
| National Median | β | $53,694* | β | $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 Howard University, approximately 41% 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 6 similar programs in DC. Actual outcomes may vary.