Analysis
Colorado's other accounting associate programs suggest first-year earnings around $37,000—a number that drops to $34,862 by year four for this program's graduates. That backward slide is unusual and worth noting, though the initial earnings estimate aligns with what peer programs across the state typically produce. Front Range Community College, for instance, reports slightly higher outcomes at $38,838 for their accounting graduates.
The estimated debt load of $23,800 falls slightly above both the state median ($22,944) and national median ($19,354) for accounting associate programs. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.64, graduates would likely manage monthly payments, but there's little cushion given the income trajectory. The school serves a predominantly low-income population (81% receive Pell grants), making even moderate debt consequential for families without financial safety nets.
The real concern is paying more than typical programs while seeing earnings decline rather than grow in those critical early career years. If your child is set on accounting, community colleges like Front Range report stronger outcomes with likely lower costs. If IBMC offers compelling advantages—location, schedule flexibility, job placement support—get specifics on where their accounting graduates actually land, since these estimated figures can't tell you whether this particular program delivers on its promises.
Where IBMC College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting associates's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| IBMC College | — | $34,862 | — |
| Southern New Hampshire University | $37,986 | $53,096 | +40% |
| Connecticut State Community College | $42,591 | $52,194 | +23% |
| Front Range Community College | $38,838 | $44,590 | +15% |
| Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs | $34,762 | $33,781 | -3% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Colorado
Accounting associates's programs at peer institutions in Colorado (13 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $15,320 | $37,001* | $34,862 | $23,823* | — | |
| $4,740 | $38,838* | $44,590 | $21,625* | 0.56 | |
| $12,760 | $34,762* | $33,781 | $24,263* | 0.70 | |
| 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 IBMC College, approximately 81% 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 national median of 118 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.