Analysis
Wisconsin-Stevens Point's accounting graduates earn about $5,000 less in their first year than the typical Wisconsin accounting gradβlanding in the 40th percentile both statewide and nationally. That gap persists even four years out, when earnings reach $58,523 compared to Wisconsin's median of $56,688. For context, UW-Madison accounting grads start at nearly $69,000, though Stevens Point's 90% admission rate serves a broader student population than the flagship.
The program's real advantage is cost control. With median debt of $24,888 and a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.48, graduates face lower financial pressure than at many competing Wisconsin programs where debt typically exceeds $25,000. The 14% earnings growth over four years is solid, suggesting graduates build momentum as they gain experience and complete CPA requirements.
For families prioritizing affordability over peak earnings potential, this program delivers adequate preparation for an accounting career without excessive debt. Your child won't command top-tier Wisconsin salaries straight out of college, but they'll enter a stable profession with room to grow and monthly loan payments that won't overwhelm an accountant's salary. If your student has admission offers from UW-La Crosse or Whitewater with similar financial aid packages, those programs show stronger earnings outcomes worth considering.
Where University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point 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-Stevens Point | $51,488 | $58,523 | +14% |
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,834 | $51,488 | $58,523 | $24,888 | 0.48 | |
| $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-Stevens Point, approximately 28% 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 52 graduates with reported earnings and 58 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.