Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs β see details below.
Analysis
Florida's accounting programs show significant variation in outcomes, and Nova Southeastern falls somewhere in the middle of the pack. Based on comparable Florida programs, graduates here likely start around $52,000βnotably below what peers at UF ($65,000) or UNF ($59,000) command, but on par with the state median. By year four, earnings climb to $68,000, suggesting steady if unremarkable progression in a field known for clear advancement paths.
The estimated $25,250 in debt aligns with both state and national norms for accounting degrees, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49. That's well within the comfort zone for a professional credential that typically leads to stable employment. The challenge isn't the debt burdenβit's whether Nova's placement network and employer relationships can match those of Florida's flagship universities, which appear to position graduates for stronger initial salaries.
For parents evaluating this program, the practical question is whether Nova Southeastern's tuition delivers comparable value to less expensive in-state options. The four-year earnings suggest the gap narrows over time, but starting $10,000+ behind peers at public universities means playing catch-up during critical early-career years. If your child has admission offers from UF or FSU, those programs show measurably stronger starting outcomes. If Nova offers significantly more financial aid or better fits other priorities, the debt load remains reasonableβjust don't expect it to outperform Florida's public accounting programs.
Where Nova Southeastern University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nova Southeastern University | β | $67,990 | β |
| University of Florida | $65,144 | $75,355 | +16% |
| Florida State University | $55,626 | $74,193 | +33% |
| The University of Tampa | $52,690 | $71,151 | +35% |
| Florida International University | $54,963 | $68,602 | +25% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (42 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $37,080 | $51,837* | $67,990 | $25,250* | β | |
| $6,381 | $65,144* | $75,355 | $18,003* | 0.28 | |
| $6,389 | $58,514* | $66,355 | $22,615* | 0.39 | |
| $4,879 | $56,600* | $60,630 | $19,431* | 0.34 | |
| $5,656 | $55,626* | $74,193 | $18,625* | 0.33 | |
| $6,368 | $55,203* | $68,209 | $19,736* | 0.36 | |
| 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 Nova Southeastern University, approximately 37% 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 22 similar programs in FL. Actual outcomes may vary.