Analysis
The University of Louisville's accounting program delivers a compelling combination that many Kentucky families overlook: significantly lower debt than both state and national averages while maintaining solid earnings. Graduates here leave with $19,374 in debt compared to $26,000 statewideβa difference that translates to roughly $65 less in monthly payments over a standard 10-year repayment period. That 0.37 debt-to-earnings ratio means students typically owe less than 40% of their first year's salary, well below the concerning 1.0 threshold.
The earnings trajectory tells an encouraging story. Starting at $51,923 might trail the national median slightly, but it's squarely middle-of-the-pack for Kentucky accounting programs and grows 24% by year four to $64,110. At that point, Louisville graduates are out-earning those from several more selective Kentucky programs. The 60th percentile state ranking is particularly meaningful hereβyou're getting better-than-average performance from an accessible program with an 81% admission rate.
For families weighing cost against outcomes, Louisville's accounting program offers a practical path. Your child won't carry the debt burden typical of Kentucky accounting students, and they'll reach competitive mid-career earnings while spending less to get there. That financial breathing room early in a career shouldn't be underestimated when considering entry-level accounting positions.
Where University of Louisville Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Louisville 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 Louisville | $51,923 | $64,110 | +23% |
| University of Kentucky | $59,474 | $67,805 | +14% |
| Transylvania University | $58,803 | $62,272 | +6% |
| Northern Kentucky University | $52,425 | $61,901 | +18% |
| Western Kentucky University | $50,104 | $58,675 | +17% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Kentucky
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kentucky (22 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $12,828 | $51,923 | $64,110 | $19,374 | 0.37 | |
| $13,212 | $59,474 | $67,805 | $23,250 | 0.39 | |
| $44,980 | $58,803 | $62,272 | $27,000 | 0.46 | |
| $38,400 | $55,385 | β | $27,000 | 0.49 | |
| $10,896 | $52,425 | $61,901 | $23,750 | 0.45 | |
| $11,436 | $50,104 | $58,675 | $25,000 | 0.50 | |
| 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 Louisville, approximately 29% 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 93 graduates with reported earnings and 105 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.