Analysis
Based on comparable accounting programs across Florida, this associate's degree appears positioned in the middle of the pack—with estimated first-year earnings of $39,114 matching the state median and coming in above the national benchmark of $37,000. The estimated debt load of $16,000 is notably lower than both the state median ($23,823) and national median ($19,354), resulting in a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41. That means the typical graduate could theoretically pay off their loans with about five months of gross income, which is solid for a two-year credential.
The challenge here is uncertainty. These figures are derived from peer programs because North Florida College's graduate cohort was too small to report publicly—meaning we don't know how *these specific* students fare compared to graduates from Valencia College (which reports $37,200) or higher-earning programs like Keiser's Fort Lauderdale campus ($48,100). The school serves a substantial population of Pell grant recipients (39%), which suggests it's fulfilling an access mission in a rural area where options may be limited.
For parents weighing this investment, the estimated numbers suggest reasonable value if your student plans to stay in the region and enter the workforce quickly. But recognize you're making this decision without hard data on actual graduate outcomes from this campus. If proximity isn't the deciding factor, consider programs with reported earnings data that can offer more certainty about the return.
Where North Florida College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Accounting associates's programs at peer institutions in Florida (40 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $3,054 | $39,114* | — | $15,979* | — | |
| $24,136 | $48,117* | $43,871 | $29,000* | 0.60 | |
| $15,117 | $43,765* | $44,358 | $23,823* | 0.54 | |
| $16,088 | $41,019* | — | $24,811* | 0.60 | |
| $2,474 | $37,209* | $35,810 | $14,806* | 0.40 | |
| $2,830 | $36,970* | $36,384 | —* | — | |
| 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 North Florida College, approximately 39% 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 6 similar programs in FL. Actual outcomes may vary.