Analysis
Based on comparable accounting programs in Alabama, Miles College graduates can expect starting salaries around $47,000βputting them roughly $6,000 behind the national median but squarely in line with state norms. The estimated $26,600 in debt produces a manageable 0.56 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe about seven months of their first-year salary. For a school serving predominantly Pell-eligible students (76%), these numbers suggest the program delivers solid middle-class entry points without overwhelming debt burdens.
However, context matters here. Auburn and Alabama graduates from similar programs are starting $6,000-$13,000 higher, which compounds significantly over a career. If your child has competitive academic credentials, comparing net costs after aid becomes crucialβa higher sticker price at a flagship might actually cost less out of pocket while delivering stronger earning potential. That said, for students who need a supportive environment or proximity to home, the estimated debt load here won't trap them in unmanageable payments.
The practical question: Can your family verify actual graduate outcomes directly with Miles College's career services? Since these figures are drawn from peer programs rather than this school's specific track record, asking about job placement rates, employer relationships, and CPA exam pass rates would give you the concrete evidence these estimates can't provide.
Where Miles College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Alabama
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Alabama (24 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $12,714 | $47,089* | β | $26,588* | β | |
| $12,536 | $60,381* | $68,374 | $23,250* | 0.39 | |
| $11,900 | $53,452* | $68,159 | $23,000* | 0.43 | |
| $13,920 | $52,373* | $56,398 | $54,989* | 1.05 | |
| $8,832 | $51,640* | $53,666 | $34,288* | 0.66 | |
| $13,420 | $49,538* | $54,212 | β* | β | |
| 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 Miles College, approximately 76% 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 14 similar programs in AL. Actual outcomes may vary.