Analysis
Loras College's accounting graduates earn $61,147 in their first yearβa solid figure that ranks in the 77th percentile nationally and puts them roughly in the middle of Iowa's accounting programs. While we don't have reported debt figures for this specific program, similar bachelor's programs at Iowa private colleges typically saddle graduates with around $27,000 in debt. That would produce a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44, meaning graduates could reasonably expect to repay their loans while building their careers.
The earnings trajectory looks steady rather than spectacular, with 15% growth to $70,373 by year four. This positions Loras graduates slightly behind Drake and University of Iowa's programs but competitive with other well-regarded Iowa schools. The program appears to deliver what accounting majors need most: respectable starting salaries that allow for financial stability early in their careers, when loan payments hit hardest.
For an anxious parent, the practical takeaway is straightforward: based on what peer programs produce, a Loras accounting degree should generate enough income to manage the typical debt load comfortably. The numbers suggest a viable path into the profession, though not necessarily the premium outcomes you'd see at Iowa's top-tier programs. Given accounting's relatively predictable career pathways, these estimated figures offer reasonable confidence about the financial picture your child would face.
Where Loras College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Loras College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loras College | $61,147 | $70,373 | +15% |
| University of Iowa | $65,373 | $77,201 | +18% |
| Drake University | $65,922 | $75,593 | +15% |
| Luther College | $60,068 | $74,629 | +24% |
| University of Northern Iowa | $61,088 | $71,359 | +17% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Iowa
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Iowa (23 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $38,298 | $61,147 | $70,373 | $27,000* | β | |
| $49,944 | $65,922 | $75,593 | $20,500* | 0.31 | |
| $10,964 | $65,373 | $77,201 | $22,500* | 0.34 | |
| $51,040 | $61,529 | $68,921 | $26,840* | 0.44 | |
| $9,728 | $61,088 | $71,359 | $21,525* | 0.35 | |
| $38,190 | $60,752 | β | β* | β | |
| National Median | β | $53,694 | β | $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 Loras College, approximately 25% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 18 graduates with reported earnings and 17 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.