Analysis
University of Nevada-Reno's accounting program delivers strong earnings with remarkably low debtβa combination that's unusual among business programs. Graduates earn $59,218 in their first year, substantially above both the national median ($53,694) and Nevada's median ($51,405). More importantly, they carry just $17,116 in debt, about $8,000 less than typical accounting graduates nationwide. That 0.29 debt-to-earnings ratio means students can reasonably pay off their loans in under a year of focused repayment, giving them financial flexibility right out of college.
The program ranks in the 60th percentile among Nevada accounting programs, outearning nearby competitors including UNLV. While it's not the state's top performer, the debt advantage matters more here: UNR graduates carry significantly less burden than peers elsewhere. Earnings grow steadily to $69,116 by year four, a healthy 17% increase that suggests solid career progression.
For families weighing in-state options, this program offers a clear advantageβcompetitive earnings without the debt load that often accompanies accounting degrees. The combination of Nevada's accessible admission (85% acceptance rate) and strong financial outcomes makes this a practical choice for students who want to enter the profession without excessive borrowing. The moderate sample size suggests consistent placement rather than a few outlier success stories.
Where University of Nevada-Reno Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Nevada-Reno 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 Nevada-Reno | $59,218 | $69,116 | +17% |
| Georgetown University | $89,564 | $127,971 | +43% |
| Santa Clara University | $78,417 | $101,411 | +29% |
| University of Nevada-Las Vegas | $49,751 | $64,940 | +31% |
| University of Phoenix-Nevada | $51,405 | $52,008 | +1% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Nevada
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Nevada (3 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,994 | $59,218 | $69,116 | $17,116 | 0.29 | |
| β | $51,405 | $52,008 | $47,435 | 0.92 | |
| $9,142 | $49,751 | $64,940 | $18,159 | 0.36 | |
| 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 Nevada-Reno, 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.
Sample Size: Based on 98 graduates with reported earnings and 103 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.