Analysis
Similar accounting programs in Tennessee typically produce first-year earnings around $52,000, which puts this estimate squarely in line with what nearby competitors like Middle Tennessee State and UT-Knoxville report. With estimated debt of $23,500, graduates would face manageable monthly payments of roughly $260βabout 6% of gross income. That's a reasonable burden for an accounting degree, which tends to offer steady employment and clear career progression.
What's worth noting is that Tennessee's accounting programs cluster tightly around the state median, suggesting fairly consistent outcomes regardless of institution. The national median sits just $2,000 higher, meaning accountants in Tennessee aren't sacrificing much compared to their peers elsewhere. For a selective private institution like Milligan (70% admission rate, 1195 average SAT), these estimated figures suggest competitiveness with larger state schools, though without the ability to verify outcomes specifically from Milligan's program.
The 0.45 debt-to-earnings ratio falls comfortably below concerning thresholds. If your child is drawn to Milligan's small-class environment and values-based education, these peer program estimates suggest the accounting degree shouldn't create financial regret. Still, ask the school directly about their accounting placement rates and CPA exam pass ratesβthose concrete program outcomes matter more than estimated earnings when you're choosing a specific institution over alternatives like MTSU that cost less and report similar salaries.
Where Milligan University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Tennessee
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Tennessee (28 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $39,350 | $51,694* | β | $23,491* | β | |
| $8,568 | $53,620* | $50,033 | $29,250* | 0.55 | |
| $22,690 | $53,577* | $70,035 | $16,750* | 0.31 | |
| $13,484 | $53,197* | $71,799 | $22,000* | 0.41 | |
| $13,920 | $52,373* | $56,398 | $54,989* | 1.05 | |
| $9,506 | $51,963* | $59,969 | $24,553* | 0.47 | |
| 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 Milligan University, approximately 23% 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 10 similar programs in TN. Actual outcomes may vary.