Analysis
Similar accounting programs across Tennessee suggest Lincoln Memorial's bachelor's degree produces outcomes right in line with state norms—estimated first-year earnings around $51,700 against roughly $23,500 in debt. That 0.45 debt-to-earnings ratio is manageable by accounting standards, where solid starting salaries typically make loan repayment straightforward.
What's encouraging here is the consistency: Tennessee accounting graduates from programs like UT-Knoxville, Middle Tennessee State, and Lee University all cluster in the low-to-mid $50,000s for first-year earnings, suggesting the state's accounting job market offers relatively stable entry points regardless of where you earn the credential. Lincoln Memorial's estimated outcomes track with this pattern, though they sit slightly below the national median of $53,700. The debt load appears lighter than the national benchmark of $25,000, which helps offset the somewhat lower earnings.
The uncertainty around these specific estimates matters more if your student has compelling alternatives with actual reported data. If they're choosing between Lincoln Memorial and one of Tennessee's larger programs with documented outcomes in the $52,000-$53,000 range, that's worth exploring. But if location, fit, or financial aid make Lincoln Memorial the frontrunner, the broader Tennessee accounting picture suggests reasonable economic fundamentals—just recognize you're making that call based on peer program performance rather than this school's track record.
Where Lincoln Memorial University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Tennessee
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Tennessee (28 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $26,150 | $51,694* | — | $23,491* | — | |
| $8,568 | $53,620* | $50,033 | $29,250* | 0.55 | |
| $22,690 | $53,577* | $70,035 | $16,750* | 0.31 | |
| $13,484 | $53,197* | $71,799 | $22,000* | 0.41 | |
| $13,920 | $52,373* | $56,398 | $54,989* | 1.05 | |
| $9,506 | $51,963* | $59,969 | $24,553* | 0.47 | |
| 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 Lincoln Memorial University, approximately 36% 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 10 similar programs in TN. Actual outcomes may vary.