Accounting at Texas A&M University-Kingsville

Texas A&M-Kingsville's accounting program starts graduates at $41,047—nearly $8,000 below the Texas median and almost $13,000 below the national average. While that ranks only in the 25th percentile statewide, the relatively modest debt load of $22,250 creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.54, meaning graduates can theoretically pay off loans with about half their first year's salary. The 20% earnings growth by year four brings pay closer to state norms, suggesting the program provides solid fundamentals even if initial placement lags behind competitors.

Context matters here: this is a Hispanic-serving institution with a 92% admission rate serving a student body where 55% receive Pell grants. The lower starting salary likely reflects both the regional job market in South Texas and the school's accessibility mission rather than program quality alone. For families seeking an affordable accounting credential without relocating to Austin or Dallas, the combination of below-average debt and steady earnings growth makes this workable, though elite Texas programs like UT-Austin or Texas A&M-College Station start graduates at $68,000-plus.

The small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these figures could shift significantly year to year. But for students prioritizing manageable debt over maximum earnings, this program delivers CPA-track credentials without the financial burden of flagship universities.