Analysis
Louisiana Tech's accounting program starts slower than mostβfirst-year earnings of $44,846 land in just the 17th percentile nationallyβbut the trajectory tells a different story. By year four, graduates earn $64,452, representing 44% growth that outpaces typical accounting programs. The manageable $22,000 debt load (slightly below Louisiana's median) means new graduates face monthly payments around $240, roughly 6.5% of take-home pay in that crucial first year.
The state comparison reveals this program's positioning: it sits right at Louisiana's median for first-year earnings but charges less debt than most state competitors. While top programs like LSU start graduates $12,000 higher, Louisiana Tech's stronger mid-career trajectory narrows that gap considerably. The 40th percentile state ranking reflects the conservative first-year figure, but the year-four numbers suggest graduates catch up as they gain experience and CPA credentials.
For families prioritizing low debt and strong earning potential over immediate salary, this program delivers. The early earnings lag matters less when you're carrying minimal debt, and the growth curve indicates graduates land in roles with clear advancement paths. This isn't the flashiest option for Louisiana accounting students, but it's one of the more financially sensible ones, particularly for students who don't want to start their careers with heavy loan burdens.
Where Louisiana Tech University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Louisiana Tech University 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana Tech University | $44,846 | $64,452 | +44% |
| Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College | $56,910 | $71,624 | +26% |
| University of Louisiana at Monroe | $47,974 | $61,900 | +29% |
| Louisiana State University-Shreveport | $37,466 | $58,461 | +56% |
| University of New Orleans | $41,540 | $56,582 | +36% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Louisiana
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Louisiana (22 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $10,125 | $44,846 | $64,452 | $22,000 | 0.49 | |
| $11,954 | $56,910 | $71,624 | $19,600 | 0.34 | |
| $13,420 | $49,538 | $54,212 | β | β | |
| $8,864 | $48,895 | $38,761 | $29,371 | 0.60 | |
| $9,190 | $47,974 | $61,900 | $12,834 | 0.27 | |
| $8,373 | $47,395 | $50,807 | $21,250 | 0.45 | |
| 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 Louisiana Tech University, approximately 21% 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 33 graduates with reported earnings and 37 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.