Analysis
In Michigan, accounting associate's degrees range widely in outcomes, but peer programs suggest Mid Michigan's version falls in the middle of the pack. Based on similar programs in the state, graduates can expect around $36,181 in first-year earnings—just below the national median but consistent with what nearby community colleges report. Oakland CC's graduates earn about $4,000 more annually, while Grand Rapids CC sits slightly lower, indicating that Michigan's accounting job market varies considerably by region.
The estimated $13,248 in debt is actually a bright spot here. It's notably lower than both the state median ($17,621) and national figure ($19,354) for accounting associate's programs. That translates to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37—meaning you'd owe roughly four and a half months of gross income, which is manageable for a two-year credential. Community colleges serving populations with significant Pell Grant recipients (32% here) often keep costs down, and that appears to be paying off.
The practical calculation: if these estimates hold, monthly loan payments would consume about 7-8% of gross income on a standard repayment plan. That leaves reasonable breathing room for someone entering Michigan's accounting workforce. The uncertainty around these figures matters less when the fundamentals—low debt, steady mid-$30K starting point—align with what successful two-year accounting programs typically deliver.
Where Mid Michigan College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Michigan
Accounting associates's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (35 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $5,794 | $36,181* | — | $13,248* | — | |
| $3,020 | $40,424* | $46,109 | $21,496* | 0.53 | |
| $12,810 | $36,181* | $38,187 | $26,067* | 0.72 | |
| $4,059 | $35,538* | $42,721 | $12,750* | 0.36 | |
| National Median | — | $37,000* | — | $19,354* | 0.52 |
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 Mid Michigan College, approximately 32% 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 3 similar programs in MI. Actual outcomes may vary.