Analysis
A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.71 is manageable by most standards, but the gap between this program's estimated $26,291 debt load and what comparable accounting associate degree programs typically require—just $7,370 at the state median and $19,354 nationally—demands attention. The earnings estimate of $37,001 aligns with what similar programs across the country produce, suggesting reasonable career prospects. Yet when Nebraska accounting grads elsewhere are finishing with roughly a quarter of the debt, it raises questions about whether Union Adventist's private-school premium translates to real advantages for students.
The bigger challenge is uncertainty itself. With data too limited for the DOE to report actual outcomes, you're evaluating this program based on broad national benchmarks rather than verified results from Union Adventist's own graduates. That's not a red flag about quality necessarily—small cohorts simply don't generate publishable data—but it does mean you're making a significant financial decision without knowing how this specific program's alumni fare in Nebraska's accounting job market.
If your child is committed to Union Adventist for reasons beyond academics—faith community, campus culture, specific mentorship—the estimated financials aren't prohibitive. But purely as an accounting credential investment, programs at Nebraska's public colleges would likely deliver similar career preparation at dramatically lower cost. The difference could easily fund a bachelor's degree later or provide a financial cushion during early career years.
Where Union Adventist University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Accounting associates's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $27,990 | $37,001* | — | $26,291* | — | |
| $2,550 | $58,469* | $44,916 | $22,215* | 0.38 | |
| $8,216 | $52,576* | $50,545 | $24,956* | 0.47 | |
| $31,168 | $52,576* | $50,545 | $24,956* | 0.47 | |
| $5,050 | $49,685* | $48,712 | —* | — | |
| $6,270 | $48,832* | — | $19,254* | 0.39 | |
| 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 Union Adventist University, approximately 24% 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.