Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
Oklahoma City University's accounting program estimates debt of $26,588 against first-year earnings around $49,823—figures drawn from peer programs across Oklahoma and similar private institutions nationally. That 0.53 debt-to-earnings ratio falls within reasonable bounds for accounting degrees, but the earnings figure itself tells a more complicated story about this particular path.
Based on comparable Oklahoma programs, these estimated earnings land right at the state median but trail the flagship state schools considerably. University of Oklahoma accounting grads start around $62,930, while Oklahoma State produces $50,943—both using reported data from their own graduates. For a private university charging tuition that generates debt $2,500 above the state median, matching rather than exceeding public school outcomes creates a tighter financial equation. The national accounting median of $53,694 reinforces that Oklahoma's market generally pays below-average salaries in this field.
The practical reality: accounting credentials remain professionally valuable regardless of where you earn them, and the estimated debt here won't be crushing on a $50,000 salary. But you're likely paying a premium over Oklahoma's public options without clear evidence of an earnings advantage. If Oklahoma City University offers compelling non-financial benefits—smaller classes, stronger campus fit, or better career services—those could justify the cost difference. Otherwise, the flagship universities appear to deliver stronger market outcomes at lower debt levels for Oklahoma accounting students.
Where Oklahoma City University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Oklahoma
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Oklahoma (18 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $33,586 | $49,823* | — | $26,588* | — | |
| $9,595 | $62,930* | $76,379 | $20,500* | 0.33 | |
| $8,522 | $56,889* | $67,152 | $27,273* | 0.48 | |
| $10,234 | $50,943* | $72,003 | $23,250* | 0.46 | |
| $7,513 | $49,823* | $58,689 | $25,000* | 0.50 | |
| $8,032 | $46,419* | — | $15,500* | 0.33 | |
| 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 Oklahoma City 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 7 similar programs in OK. Actual outcomes may vary.