Accounting at Universidad Ana G. Mendez-Carolina Campus

This accounting program produces graduates earning just above Puerto Rico's median for the field—a position that looks very different depending on your frame of reference. While this program ranks in the bottom 5% nationally with starting pay of $25,582, it actually outperforms 60% of accounting programs on the island. The modest earnings growth to $26,280 by year four suggests limited advancement potential, though graduates carry relatively manageable debt at $18,000.

The real tension here is geographic. Nationally, accounting graduates typically earn $53,694—more than double what this program delivers. But if your child plans to work in Puerto Rico's economy, this program performs slightly better than the state median of $24,979 while keeping debt below the state average. Still, even within Puerto Rico, several EDP University campuses are placing graduates into positions paying $31,000+, demonstrating that better outcomes are achievable on the island.

The 0.70 debt-to-earnings ratio is reasonable for year one, and 70% of students receive Pell grants, indicating the program serves students with limited financial resources. If staying in Puerto Rico is the plan, this program offers middle-of-the-road value. But families considering mainland opportunities should recognize the significant earnings gap: this degree will likely limit your child to Puerto Rico's lower wage market.