Analysis
Regis University's accounting program sits comfortably above both national and Colorado medians, with graduates earning $58,811 in their first year—roughly $5,000 more than typical accounting graduates nationwide and in-state. Among Colorado's ten accounting programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile, trailing only University of Denver and Colorado State University Global. The steady earnings trajectory to $65,506 by year four suggests graduates are building stable accounting careers rather than hitting early ceilings.
The debt picture is where Regis truly distinguishes itself. At $33,668, graduates carry debt levels identical to the Colorado median but $8,000 more than the national benchmark. However, the 0.57 debt-to-earnings ratio remains manageable—graduates earn nearly twice what they owe. This is particularly relevant in Denver's competitive job market, where accounting roles are plentiful and the higher starting salaries quickly offset the additional borrowing.
For families weighing Regis against cheaper in-state options like Metro State or Colorado State Pueblo, the $4,000-5,000 salary premium justifies the investment, especially given Regis's relatively accessible 87% admission rate. The moderate sample size provides reasonable confidence in these outcomes. This program delivers solid value for students seeking accounting credentials with stronger-than-average earning potential in Colorado's Front Range economy.
Where Regis University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Regis University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regis University | $58,811 | $65,506 | +11% |
| University of Denver | $67,392 | $80,927 | +20% |
| Colorado State University Global | $61,648 | $65,218 | +6% |
| Metropolitan State University of Denver | $54,030 | $64,453 | +19% |
| Colorado Mesa University | $52,198 | $60,715 | +16% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Colorado
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Colorado (10 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $43,980 | $58,811 | $65,506 | $33,668 | 0.57 | |
| $59,340 | $67,392 | $80,927 | $21,288 | 0.32 | |
| $8,400 | $61,648 | $65,218 | $34,167 | 0.55 | |
| $9,401 | $54,213 | $51,976 | — | — | |
| $10,780 | $54,030 | $64,453 | $26,320 | 0.49 | |
| $39,266 | $53,756 | $54,988 | $41,848 | 0.78 | |
| 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 Regis University, approximately 26% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 36 graduates with reported earnings and 52 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.