Analysis
University of Florida's accounting graduates enter the workforce earning $65,144βsubstantially outpacing both the national median ($53,694) and the typical Florida accounting program ($51,837). Among Florida's 42 accounting programs, this ranks in the 80th percentile, clearly ahead of larger in-state alternatives like UF's sister schools FSU and UCF. That earnings advantage grows over time, with four-year graduates earning $75,355, a 16% increase that suggests strong career trajectories.
The debt picture amplifies the value proposition. At $18,003, graduates carry roughly $7,600 less debt than the Florida median and $7,000 below the national benchmark. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.28 means students owe less than four months of their first-year salaryβan exceptionally comfortable position for recent graduates. For perspective, accounting graduates at many peer institutions face 40-50% higher debt loads while earning less.
The caveat: this data reflects fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes may vary more than at programs with larger samples. Still, the combination of UF's strong reputation (24% admission rate), significantly lower debt, and superior earnings compared to every other large public university in Florida makes this a standout option for in-state students pursuing accounting. The financial fundamentals are compelling enough that even with a small sample, this program warrants serious consideration.
Where University of Florida Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Florida graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Florida | $65,144 | $75,355 | +16% |
| Florida State University | $55,626 | $74,193 | +33% |
| The University of Tampa | $52,690 | $71,151 | +35% |
| Florida International University | $54,963 | $68,602 | +25% |
| University of Central Florida | $55,203 | $68,209 | +24% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (42 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $6,381 | $65,144 | $75,355 | $18,003 | 0.28 | |
| $6,389 | $58,514 | $66,355 | $22,615 | 0.39 | |
| $4,879 | $56,600 | $60,630 | $19,431 | 0.34 | |
| $5,656 | $55,626 | $74,193 | $18,625 | 0.33 | |
| $6,368 | $55,203 | $68,209 | $19,736 | 0.36 | |
| $6,565 | $54,963 | $68,602 | $18,625 | 0.34 | |
| National Median | β | $53,694 | β | $25,000 | 0.47 |
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 University of Florida, approximately 22% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 16 graduates with reported earnings and 36 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.