Analysis
University of Redlands accounting graduates earn $87,099 four years outβwell above the national median of $53,694 and solidly positioned among California's accounting programs, though not at the very top tier. At the 60th percentile statewide, these graduates trail the big names like Santa Clara and USC but outperform most California schools. The $27,000 median debt is manageable, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.40 that gives graduates breathing room to establish their careers. Strong 29% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests graduates are advancing into more senior accounting roles.
The caveat here matters: with fewer than 30 graduates in the data, these numbers could shift significantly with a different cohort. That said, the pattern makes sense for a selective liberal arts university with a professional programβsolid preparation and strong regional placement without the premium price tag or elite credentials of USC or Santa Clara. For an 81% acceptance rate school, these outcomes punch above weight.
For parents weighing options, this program delivers strong value if your child gets in-state tuition or substantial aid. The debt burden is reasonable, and the earnings trajectory suggests graduates are competitive in the California job market. Just recognize you're looking at a small sampleβask the school about recent placement rates and whether these numbers hold across multiple graduating classes.
Where University of Redlands Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Redlands 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 Redlands | $67,359 | $87,099 | +29% |
| Santa Clara University | $78,417 | $101,411 | +29% |
| University of San Francisco | $72,588 | $92,299 | +27% |
| Menlo College | $71,067 | $92,161 | +30% |
| Loyola Marymount University | $70,960 | $91,902 | +30% |
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (44 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $57,614 | $67,359 | $87,099 | $27,000 | 0.40 | |
| $59,241 | $78,417 | $101,411 | $19,250 | 0.25 | |
| $68,237 | $73,903 | $90,072 | $16,500 | 0.22 | |
| $50,670 | $72,696 | $75,436 | $21,858 | 0.30 | |
| $58,222 | $72,588 | $92,299 | $24,660 | 0.34 | |
| $51,070 | $71,067 | $92,161 | $26,955 | 0.38 | |
| 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 Redlands, approximately 35% 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 17 graduates with reported earnings and 20 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.