Analysis
Kansas accounting programs show fairly consistent outcomes, but the estimated $33,552 debt load here is notably higher than typical for the field. Based on comparable programs in Kansas, graduates might expect first-year earnings around $53,842—right at the state median—but that debt figure sits roughly $8,000 above what most Kansas accounting students carry. For context, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.62 means paying back about seven months of gross salary, which is manageable but not ideal when similar programs produce the same earnings with less borrowing.
The larger concern is competitive positioning. Kansas State and Wichita State graduates—from programs with actual reported data—earn $6,000-$7,000 more in their first year while typically carrying less debt. Even other private Kansas schools appear to deliver better outcomes. With 41% of Kansas Wesleyan students receiving Pell grants, that higher debt burden hits first-generation and lower-income students particularly hard.
For families considering this program, the key question is whether Kansas Wesleyan offers something unique worth the premium. The accounting credential itself should provide solid employability—it's a practical degree with clear career paths. But based on peer program outcomes, you're looking at potentially paying more for similar earnings to the state average, which makes the financial return less compelling than alternatives within Kansas.
Where Kansas Wesleyan University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Kansas
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kansas (24 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $33,470 | $53,842* | — | $33,552* | — | |
| $10,942 | $60,155* | $68,922 | $24,250* | 0.40 | |
| $9,322 | $59,448* | $63,799 | $22,250* | 0.37 | |
| $34,800 | $58,320* | $68,559 | $20,500* | 0.35 | |
| $5,633 | $56,503* | $44,024 | $26,000* | 0.46 | |
| $9,578 | $55,197* | $58,768 | $20,853* | 0.38 | |
| 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 Kansas Wesleyan 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 13 similar programs in KS. Actual outcomes may vary.