Analysis
Similar programs across Florida suggest first-year earnings around $39,000 for this associate degree—a figure that aligns with the statewide median for accounting programs. The estimated debt load of roughly $16,000 is notably lower than both the state median ($23,800) and national median ($19,400), which matters significantly when you're looking at a two-year credential designed to get students working quickly.
The 0.41 debt-to-earnings ratio based on these peer program figures is encouraging, meaning the typical graduate could theoretically pay off their debt with less than half a year's salary. With over a third of Tallahassee State students receiving Pell grants, this appears to be a program focused on practical workforce preparation rather than credential inflation. Florida's accounting programs show wide variance in outcomes—from $37,000 to over $48,000 at the top end—but this program's estimated profile sits comfortably in the middle range without the debt burden that some competitors carry.
Since these figures are drawn from comparable Florida programs rather than Tallahassee State's own graduates, you'll want to ask the school directly about job placement rates and whether local employers actively recruit from their accounting program. The estimated numbers suggest a workable investment, but the school's regional connections and employer relationships will ultimately determine whether your child finds steady work in Tallahassee's market.
Where Tallahassee State College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Accounting associates's programs at peer institutions in Florida (40 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2,026 | $39,114* | — | $15,979* | — | |
| $24,136 | $48,117* | $43,871 | $29,000* | 0.60 | |
| $15,117 | $43,765* | $44,358 | $23,823* | 0.54 | |
| $16,088 | $41,019* | — | $24,811* | 0.60 | |
| $2,474 | $37,209* | $35,810 | $14,806* | 0.40 | |
| $2,830 | $36,970* | $36,384 | —* | — | |
| 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 Tallahassee State College, approximately 37% 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 median of 6 similar programs in FL. Actual outcomes may vary.