Analysis
An estimated debt load of $15,979 for an associate's degree in accounting looks manageable on paper, particularly when similar programs nationally carry a median debt of $19,354. The estimated first-year earnings of $37,001, based on comparable accounting programs nationwide, sits right at the national median—suggesting this credential typically provides solid entry-level earning power. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.43, graduates from peer programs can generally expect to carry less than half a year's salary in debt, which positions them for reasonable repayment timelines.
However, Kansas sets a higher bar. Comparable accounting programs across the state suggest median first-year earnings closer to $40,630, with nearby Butler Community College reporting actual outcomes of $37,496 and Rasmussen hitting $43,765. The gap between Kansas City Kansas Community College's estimated figure and what similar Kansas programs deliver raises questions about whether graduates here match state-level opportunities, or whether local job market access differs. The lower debt estimate helps offset this concern, but it's worth investigating whether graduates land the same quality positions that drive stronger earnings elsewhere in the state.
For families prioritizing affordability and a practical career path, this program's estimated numbers suggest a functional return—but the lack of reported data means you're making decisions without seeing this school's actual track record. Before committing, verify job placement rates and talk to recent graduates about their real-world outcomes.
Where Kansas City Kansas Community College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Kansas
Accounting associates's programs at peer institutions in Kansas (15 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $3,150 | $37,001* | — | $15,979* | — | |
| $15,340 | $43,765* | $44,358 | $23,823* | 0.54 | |
| $3,556 | $37,496* | $35,016 | $18,407* | 0.49 | |
| 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 Kansas City Kansas Community College, approximately 31% 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.