Accounting at Olivet Nazarene University

Olivet Nazarene graduates with an accounting degree owe $27,000—roughly $3,500 more than the typical Illinois accounting program—but based on comparable programs across the state, they're likely earning right around the state median of $54,694 their first year out. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49 is actually manageable for this field, putting the debt burden below 75% of accounting programs nationally. The four-year earnings figure of $57,933 shows modest but real wage growth, though it's worth noting this represents actual reported data while the first-year number is estimated from peer programs.

The question for parents is whether Olivet's program can compete with the state's stronger accounting schools. Top programs at UIUC, Illinois Wesleyan, and Loyola place graduates into first-year salaries in the $69,000-$75,000 range—$15,000 to $20,000 higher than what peer programs suggest for Olivet graduates. That gap matters when you're carrying similar debt loads, as it translates directly into how quickly your child can pay down loans and start building wealth.

If your child is admitted to one of Illinois's flagship accounting programs, the earnings advantage likely justifies the investment. But if Olivet is competing with regional state schools or other mid-tier private colleges, the debt load here is reasonable for an accounting degree, and the four-year earnings suggest graduates are finding decent positions. Just understand you're betting on outcomes similar to the state average, not the premium that top programs command.