Analysis
Kansas accounting programs span a wide salary range, and based on comparable programs statewide, MidAmerica Nazarene's estimated first-year earnings of $53,842 land squarely in the middle—nearly identical to both state and national medians. That's a solid foundation for an accounting career, but the estimated $33,552 in debt stands out as notably higher than typical Kansas accounting graduates carry (state median: $25,125). This debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.62 means students would likely face monthly loan payments consuming a meaningful chunk of that first paycheck.
The challenge here is the combination of above-average debt with middle-of-the-pack earnings. While accounting offers stable career prospects, graduates from Kansas State or Wichita State—based on their reported outcomes—earn roughly $6,000 more annually while their students typically borrow less. That earnings gap compounds over time, making debt repayment easier for graduates of those programs.
For families considering this program, the key question is whether MidAmerica Nazarene's specific advantages—perhaps smaller class sizes, faith-based education, or location—justify taking on an extra $8,000-10,000 in debt compared to other Kansas accounting programs. The accounting degree itself should lead to employment, but that higher debt load will likely mean tighter finances in those crucial first few years after graduation.
Where MidAmerica Nazarene University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Kansas
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kansas (24 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $36,120 | $53,842* | — | $33,552* | — | |
| $10,942 | $60,155* | $68,922 | $24,250* | 0.40 | |
| $9,322 | $59,448* | $63,799 | $22,250* | 0.37 | |
| $34,800 | $58,320* | $68,559 | $20,500* | 0.35 | |
| $5,633 | $56,503* | $44,024 | $26,000* | 0.46 | |
| $9,578 | $55,197* | $58,768 | $20,853* | 0.38 | |
| National Median | — | $53,694* | — | $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 MidAmerica Nazarene University, approximately 28% 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 13 similar programs in KS. Actual outcomes may vary.