Analysis
National data from over 100 accounting programs suggests first-year earnings around $37,000 and debt near $16,000 for this associate degree—numbers that create a manageable financial foundation. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.43 means graduates could reasonably pay off loans within a year or two of focused repayment, positioning this as a relatively low-risk credential.
Community college accounting programs in California show considerable variation, with some grads earning above $40,000 while others start closer to $34,000. Without specific outcomes data from Solano, you're banking on the program delivering results comparable to these peers. The good news is that even at the lower end of this range, the debt burden remains workable—and at the higher end, this becomes quite attractive value.
The calculus here depends heavily on employment outcomes in the Fairfield area and whether the program includes pathways to CPA exam eligibility or connections to local employers. Community college accounting credentials work best when they lead directly into bookkeeping or junior accountant roles, ideally with employers who support further credentialing. Before committing, pin down job placement rates and talk to recent graduates about where they actually landed—these specifics matter more than statewide averages when the school's own outcomes aren't available.
Where Solano Community College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Accounting associates's programs at peer institutions in California (110 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $1,172 | $37,001* | — | $15,979* | — | |
| — | $41,351* | — | $17,375* | 0.42 | |
| $1,364 | $34,604* | — | —* | — | |
| National Median | — | $37,000* | — | $19,354* | 0.52 |
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 Solano Community College, approximately 21% 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 national median of 118 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.