Analysis
Similar accounting programs across Oregon suggest first-year earnings around $56,348 for University of Portland graduates, but the four-year figure of $69,967 is actual reported dataβand it's notably strong, exceeding both the national median ($53,694) and Oregon's typical outcomes. This trajectory, if the estimates hold, would place University of Portland's accounting program among the state's better performers, though peer schools like George Fox and Linfield show slightly higher initial earnings.
The $24,020 in typical debt sits below both state and national medians, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.43. That means graduates would owe less than half their first-year salaryβcomfortable territory for a professional degree that shows clear income growth. The four-year earnings jump of more than $13,000 suggests accounting credentials from University of Portland translate into career advancement, though without actual first-year data from this specific program, parents should understand there's inherent uncertainty in the early-career picture.
The investment calculus looks reasonable here: below-average debt paired with what appears to be solid mid-career earnings. Just recognize that because the initial earnings figure comes from comparable Oregon programs rather than University of Portland's actual graduates, the true starting salary could vary. The concrete four-year number provides the best evidence that this program delivers value.
Where University of Portland Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Portland | β | $69,967 | β |
| University of Oregon | $58,449 | $75,219 | +29% |
| Oregon State University | $53,694 | $72,376 | +35% |
| Oregon State University-Cascades Campus | $53,694 | $72,376 | +35% |
| Portland State University | $58,069 | $65,584 | +13% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Oregon
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Oregon (15 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $54,900 | $56,348* | $69,967 | $24,020 | β | |
| $40,940 | $59,980* | β | $26,000 | 0.43 | |
| $49,530 | $58,914* | $59,945 | $28,000 | 0.48 | |
| $15,669 | $58,449* | $75,219 | $20,500 | 0.35 | |
| $11,238 | $58,069* | $65,584 | $31,000 | 0.53 | |
| β | $54,626* | $61,317 | $42,765 | 0.78 | |
| 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 Portland, approximately 19% 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 median of 8 similar programs in OR. Actual outcomes may vary.