Accounting at Rasmussen University-North Dakota

Rasmussen's accounting associate degree commands a premium price—$23,823 in debt versus the national median of $19,354—but delivers earnings that justify the investment. Graduates earn $43,765 in their first year, landing them in the 86th percentile nationally and solidly above the $37,000 national median. That translates to a manageable 0.54 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates earn roughly twice what they borrowed.

The North Dakota context is interesting: this program sits at the 60th percentile statewide, which actually equals the state median for accounting associate degrees. With only five schools offering this program in the state, you're looking at a middle-of-the-pack option for local students. The flat earnings trajectory—essentially no growth between year one and year four—is worth noting, though starting near $44,000 with an associate degree provides a solid foundation for either immediate career entry or transfer to a bachelor's program.

For families weighing this investment, the math works. You're paying above-average debt but getting above-average outcomes, particularly compared to the national landscape. The nearly half of students receiving Pell grants suggests the program serves working-class families successfully. If your child needs a two-year credential that leads to employable skills and reasonable debt, this delivers.