Accounting at Illinois State University

Illinois State's accounting program punches above its weight—graduates earn more than 80% of accounting grads nationally, despite the university's 89% admission rate suggesting it's more accessible than elite competitors. First-year earnings of $62,940 easily clear the national median of $53,694, though they trail the state's top programs like U of I ($74,731) and Illinois Wesleyan ($70,831). Within Illinois, this ranks in the 60th percentile—solidly middle-of-the-pack among 42 in-state options.

The financial picture is straightforward: $22,482 in median debt against $62,940 in first-year earnings yields a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36, meaning graduates typically carry debt equal to just over four months of salary. That's manageable by any standard, and earnings grow to $72,270 by year four. For context, you're getting outcomes comparable to programs at more selective schools while likely paying less and gaining admission more easily.

This is a smart choice for students who want strong accounting credentials without the pressure or price tag of Illinois' most competitive programs. The earnings trajectory is healthy, the debt burden is reasonable, and the career foundation appears solid—all backed by data from 100+ graduates, so these aren't flukes.