Accounting at University of South Florida

USF's accounting program offers solid value, particularly for Florida residents comparing in-state options. With first-year earnings of $54,371 climbing to $61,900 by year four, graduates are earning above the state median and landing near national averages—while carrying notably less debt than typical accounting majors nationwide. At $20,439, the debt load sits well below both the national median ($25,000) and the Florida average ($22,615). This translates to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38, meaning graduates owe less than five months of their starting salary.

The program ranks in the 60th percentile among Florida accounting programs, placing it squarely in the middle tier below flagship options like UF and UNF, but ahead of many alternatives. The 14% earnings growth over four years suggests decent career trajectory, though graduates should expect to start several thousand dollars behind peers at the state's top programs. For students already planning to work in Florida's substantial accounting market, USF delivers reliable outcomes without the competitive admissions pressure of the flagship schools.

The combination of below-average debt and steady earnings makes this a financially sensible choice, especially for cost-conscious families. You're looking at manageable loan payments and earnings that support independent living right out of college—not a glamorous proposition, but a dependable one that gets the job done.