Analysis
University of West Georgia's accounting program delivers solid returns at a reasonable price, outperforming 60% of Georgia accounting programs despite the university's accessible admissions profile. Starting at $53,940, graduates earn slightly above the national median and well ahead of Georgia's $50,583 state medianβa meaningful advantage for students who'll likely work in-state after graduation.
The debt picture strengthens the value proposition. At $23,750, borrowers graduate with less debt than typical Georgia accounting students ($26,000) and face a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44. Within four years, earnings climb to $57,358, putting graduates within striking distance of what Kennesaw State delivers while avoiding the debt loads often seen at private alternatives like Oglethorpe. With 42% of students receiving Pell grants, this access-oriented program successfully converts moderate SAT scores into competitive accounting careers.
The tradeoff is clear: UWG won't match UGA's $64,000 starting salaries, but it costs considerably less to attend and positions graduates comfortably in Georgia's accounting job market. For families prioritizing affordability without sacrificing employment outcomes, this program does exactly what a regional public university shouldβprovides dependable entry into a stable profession without crushing debt.
Where University of West Georgia Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of West Georgia 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 West Georgia | $53,940 | $57,358 | +6% |
| Oglethorpe University | $56,121 | $77,243 | +38% |
| University of Georgia | $64,058 | $76,298 | +19% |
| Georgia Southern University | $44,094 | $66,265 | +50% |
| Kennesaw State University | $57,814 | $65,652 | +14% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (38 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $5,971 | $53,940 | $57,358 | $23,750 | 0.44 | |
| $11,180 | $64,058 | $76,298 | $23,250 | 0.36 | |
| $5,786 | $57,814 | $65,652 | $26,000 | 0.45 | |
| $45,806 | $56,121 | $77,243 | $26,000 | 0.46 | |
| $8,478 | $55,761 | $62,731 | $25,500 | 0.46 | |
| $17,488 | $54,264 | $54,099 | $54,380 | 1.00 | |
| 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 West Georgia, approximately 42% 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 62 graduates with reported earnings and 79 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.