Analysis
Wisconsin's technical college system produces remarkably consistent accounting outcomes, and peer programs suggest Mid-State follows this pattern. Based on the state median from 11 similar associate programs, first-year earnings around $42,400 land right at Wisconsin's typical level—comparable to what graduates earn from Madison Area Technical College and Western Technical College. With estimated debt near $16,000, borrowers would face monthly payments under $200 on a standard 10-year plan while earning enough to manage those obligations comfortably.
The 0.38 debt-to-earnings ratio from comparable Wisconsin programs indicates a manageable burden, particularly for an accounting credential that provides immediate employability. Other technical colleges in the state show graduates earning $43,000-$46,000 in their first year, suggesting the accounting job market in Wisconsin offers solid entry points for associate degree holders. The estimated debt also sits below the national median of $19,354 for this program type.
For parents evaluating Mid-State specifically, the key limitation is that these figures reflect what similar Wisconsin programs produce, not confirmed outcomes from this campus. The consistency across Wisconsin's technical colleges is reassuring, but you won't know this program's actual performance until it publishes its own data. If your student prefers Mid-State's location or culture, the state-level estimates suggest reasonable financial fundamentals, but connecting with recent graduates or the placement office would help confirm that local employers recognize this particular program.
Where Mid-State Technical College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Wisconsin
Accounting associates's programs at peer institutions in Wisconsin (22 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $4,886 | $42,427* | — | $15,949* | — | |
| $4,720 | $45,634* | $48,300 | $22,000* | 0.48 | |
| $4,780 | $45,333* | — | $20,252* | 0.45 | |
| $11,982 | $43,765* | $44,358 | $23,823* | 0.54 | |
| $4,716 | $42,732* | $43,719 | $16,796* | 0.39 | |
| $4,713 | $42,629* | $40,220 | $16,027* | 0.38 | |
| 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-State Technical College, approximately 24% 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 11 similar programs in WI. Actual outcomes may vary.