Analysis
Miami University-Oxford's accounting graduates earn more than 95% of accounting programs nationwide, placing them alongside elite business schools. Starting at $67,743 and climbing to $77,503 by year four, these graduates earn $14,000 above the national median and significantly outpace Ohio's typical accounting program. The debt load of $23,000βbelow both state and national averagesβcreates a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.34, meaning graduates typically carry less than four months' salary in student loans.
Within Ohio, Miami sits atop the accounting landscape, matching Case Western's earnings despite an 82% admission rate that makes it far more accessible. While the program ranks in the 60th percentile statewide, that's because Ohio has surprisingly strong accounting programs overall; Miami still beats Ohio State, Dayton, and dozens of regional competitors. The 14% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests graduates are advancing into management and CPA roles rather than plateauing in entry-level positions.
For parents weighing the investment, the numbers point clearly in one direction: this program delivers elite outcomes without elite debt. The combination of strong starting salaries, manageable borrowing, and an accessible admissions process makes Miami's accounting program one of the best values in Ohio higher education.
Where Miami University-Oxford Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Miami University-Oxford 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miami University-Oxford | $67,743 | $77,503 | +14% |
| Case Western Reserve University | $67,830 | $78,857 | +16% |
| Ohio State University-Main Campus | $62,399 | $77,705 | +25% |
| John Carroll University | $62,145 | $75,037 | +21% |
| Xavier University | $60,200 | $72,363 | +20% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (57 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $17,809 | $67,743 | $77,503 | $23,000 | 0.34 | |
| $64,671 | $67,830 | $78,857 | $25,000 | 0.37 | |
| $47,600 | $65,127 | $72,243 | $27,000 | 0.41 | |
| $12,859 | $62,399 | $77,705 | $23,284 | 0.37 | |
| $49,100 | $62,145 | $75,037 | $27,000 | 0.43 | |
| $6,178 | $61,856 | $70,020 | $26,000 | 0.42 | |
| 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 Miami University-Oxford, approximately 11% 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 109 graduates with reported earnings and 105 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.