Accounting at South Seattle College

Similar programs across Washington typically place graduates at around $31,000 first-year earnings, which makes South Seattle College's estimated $37,000 look comparatively strong—roughly $6,000 above the state median for accounting associate degrees. The estimated debt load of about $16,000 sits comfortably below both the state and national averages for this credential, translating to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.43. That's manageable territory: less than half of first-year income.

The challenge is that we're working entirely with estimates here—the actual graduate cohort was too small for the Department of Education to publish outcomes. So while peer programs suggest solid positioning, your child would be betting on South Seattle replicating what comparable accounting programs achieve elsewhere. Washington's accounting market shows wide variation: some community colleges place graduates above $33,000, others closer to $29,000.

The fundamentals look reasonable if the estimates hold. An associate's in accounting with sub-$20,000 debt and near-$40,000 starting pay offers a practical path to bookkeeping and accounting clerk roles. But confirm the program's transfer agreements if your child plans to pursue a bachelor's later—accounting careers often reward the four-year credential with significantly higher earnings potential.