Analysis
UW-Green Bay's accounting graduates start with solid earning power at $59,104βoutperforming the Wisconsin median by $2,400 and landing in the 70th percentile nationally. That's respectable territory for a program with an 88% admission rate, putting graduates within striking distance of more selective state universities. The $27,151 median debt creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46, meaning graduates can realistically pay down their loans without financial strain.
The challenge here is growth: earnings inch up just 5% over four years to $62,040. Compare that trajectory to what you might expect from top Wisconsin programs like Madison ($68,909) or Marquette ($67,665), where accounting graduates typically see steeper advancement curves. Still, this program delivers 60th percentile earnings within Wisconsin while keeping debt well below both state and national averagesβa combination that suggests smart financial management rather than underperformance.
For families prioritizing stable employment over maximum earning potential, this program offers strong risk-adjusted returns. Your child enters the workforce earning more than most accounting graduates nationally, with debt that won't dominate their financial decisions. Just recognize that the slower earnings progression means UW-Green Bay prepares graduates for solid accounting careers rather than fast-track positions at major firms.
Where University of Wisconsin-Green Bay Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Wisconsin-Green Bay 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 Wisconsin-Green Bay | $59,104 | $62,040 | +5% |
| Marquette University | $67,665 | $80,539 | +19% |
| University of Wisconsin-Madison | $68,909 | $78,931 | +15% |
| Carthage College | $61,887 | $70,257 | +14% |
| University of Wisconsin-La Crosse | $62,450 | $68,207 | +9% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Wisconsin
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Wisconsin (31 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,342 | $59,104 | $62,040 | $27,151 | 0.46 | |
| $11,205 | $68,909 | $78,931 | $21,294 | 0.31 | |
| $48,700 | $67,665 | $80,539 | $25,000 | 0.37 | |
| $9,651 | $62,450 | $68,207 | $23,264 | 0.37 | |
| $8,250 | $61,926 | $67,874 | $21,500 | 0.35 | |
| $36,500 | $61,887 | $70,257 | $27,000 | 0.44 | |
| 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 Wisconsin-Green Bay, approximately 23% 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 35 graduates with reported earnings and 31 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.