Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
Jacksonville University's accounting program produces estimated first-year earnings around $51,800—squarely in line with Florida's state median but trailing the state's stronger programs by $4,000 to $13,000. When comparable Florida accounting programs cluster near the mid-$50,000s, this gap matters: it's the difference between comfortable debt management and a tighter financial margin, especially since the estimated debt load of $25,250 already exceeds the state median by nearly $3,000.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49 suggests graduates would devote about half their first-year salary to their educational investment—manageable for accounting, where professional certifications and steady demand typically support income growth. However, at a tuition point that generates above-median debt, you'd ideally see earnings that match or exceed state averages, not just meet them. The school's 30% Pell Grant population indicates financial aid complexity that some families may navigate more successfully than others.
For families prioritizing return on investment in accounting, Florida's public universities offer a clearer value proposition with higher reported earnings and lower debt. Jacksonville University might justify its cost through smaller class sizes or network advantages, but the estimated numbers alone don't demonstrate a financial premium over less expensive alternatives in the state. If choosing this program, factor in total cost of attendance beyond these median debt figures—private school sticker prices can vary dramatically based on individual aid packages.
Where Jacksonville University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (42 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $46,180 | $51,837* | — | $25,250* | — | |
| $6,381 | $65,144* | $75,355 | $18,003* | 0.28 | |
| $6,389 | $58,514* | $66,355 | $22,615* | 0.39 | |
| $4,879 | $56,600* | $60,630 | $19,431* | 0.34 | |
| $5,656 | $55,626* | $74,193 | $18,625* | 0.33 | |
| $6,368 | $55,203* | $68,209 | $19,736* | 0.36 | |
| 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 Jacksonville University, approximately 30% 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 22 similar programs in FL. Actual outcomes may vary.