Accounting at University of Tulsa

In Oklahoma's accounting market, similar programs produce first-year earnings around $49,800—roughly $4,000 below the national median for accounting graduates. The University of Tulsa's estimated outcomes align with this state baseline, placing it in the middle of Oklahoma's 18 accounting programs. For context, OU-Norman's accounting graduates earn $62,900 their first year out, while programs at Oklahoma State and UCO also outperform the state median. Given Tulsa's selectivity (58% admission rate, 1325 average SAT), parents might reasonably expect outcomes closer to what these flagship programs deliver.

The $23,000 debt load is manageable relative to estimated first-year earnings—you're looking at roughly 5-6 months of gross pay to cover the full debt amount. This sits slightly below both state and national medians for accounting programs, which is a genuine positive. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46 suggests the financial burden shouldn't dominate early-career decisions.

The core question is whether Tulsa's academic environment and network justify paying similar amounts for potentially middling outcomes. If your child can access the stronger earning trajectories at OU or Oklahoma State for comparable costs, that's worth serious consideration. However, if Tulsa offers specific advantages—scholarship aid that reduces that $23,000, smaller classes, or particular firm connections in Tulsa's business community—the debt picture remains workable enough to make those factors decisive.