Analysis
Loyola Maryland's accounting program delivers standout outcomes at a reasonable debt load, with first-year earnings of $69,305βnearly $5,300 above the Maryland median and $15,600 above the national average. While this places graduates in the 95th percentile nationally, the 60th percentile state ranking reveals Maryland's unusually strong accounting market, where Loyola competes closely with flagship University of Maryland ($69,821) and several well-regarded regional programs.
The financial picture works in students' favor. At $27,000 in median debtβjust slightly above state and national normsβgraduates face a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39, meaning the typical borrower could realistically pay off loans in well under two years with disciplined budgeting. Strong earnings growth to $86,541 by year four (a 25% jump) suggests graduates are advancing into senior accounting roles or obtaining their CPA credentials. This trajectory matters for a field where professional licensing directly impacts earning potential.
For families comparing Maryland accounting programs, Loyola offers near-flagship outcomes without flagship admission pressure (76% acceptance rate versus UMD's far more selective profile). The combination of accessible admissions, manageable debt, and six-figure earnings potential within a few years makes this program a pragmatic choice for students ready to commit to the accounting profession. The moderate sample size means individual outcomes will vary, but the underlying math is sound.
Where Loyola University Maryland Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Loyola University Maryland 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loyola University Maryland | $69,305 | $86,541 | +25% |
| University of Maryland-College Park | $69,821 | $84,592 | +21% |
| Salisbury University | $62,889 | $77,022 | +22% |
| McDaniel College | $65,941 | $74,227 | +13% |
| Stevenson University | $67,261 | $73,483 | +9% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Maryland
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Maryland (17 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $55,480 | $69,305 | $86,541 | $27,000 | 0.39 | |
| $11,505 | $69,821 | $84,592 | $15,000 | 0.21 | |
| $39,708 | $67,261 | $73,483 | $24,922 | 0.37 | |
| $49,647 | $65,941 | $74,227 | $24,210 | 0.37 | |
| $47,240 | $64,849 | $67,143 | $19,500 | 0.30 | |
| $11,306 | $64,012 | $70,862 | $21,375 | 0.33 | |
| 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 Loyola University Maryland, approximately 18% 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 36 graduates with reported earnings and 70 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.