Analysis
Similar accounting programs in Ohio suggest graduates earn around $36,000 in their first year—slightly below the national median but typical for the state. Based on peer programs at comparable Ohio schools, you're looking at roughly $18,500 in debt, which translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.52. That means every dollar of debt corresponds to about two dollars of first-year income, a workable balance for an associate degree.
The challenge is that Ohio's accounting landscape varies significantly. Top community college programs like Cuyahoga report first-year earnings above $44,000, while others cluster closer to $35,000. Without actual graduate outcome data from Washington State College specifically, you're relying on state averages that mask considerable program-to-program differences. The estimated debt figure is also notably lower than Ohio's median of nearly $25,000, which could mean this program is genuinely more affordable—or that the estimate doesn't capture the full picture.
For a two-year credential leading to bookkeeping or entry-level accounting work, the projected numbers aren't alarming. But given the uncertainty and the wide range among Ohio programs, verify the school's actual job placement rates and whether graduates successfully sit for professional certifications. If this program connects students to employers and credentials that matter locally, the investment makes sense. If not, stronger-performing Ohio alternatives exist.
Where Washington State College of Ohio Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Accounting associates's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (57 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $4,128 | $35,703* | — | $18,516* | — | |
| $3,736 | $44,532* | $46,606 | $15,931* | 0.36 | |
| $4,670 | $38,671* | $35,917 | $19,455* | 0.50 | |
| $19,542 | $36,958* | $38,715 | $26,291* | 0.71 | |
| $5,400 | $35,703* | $49,894 | $18,516* | 0.52 | |
| $9,385 | $34,785* | $36,239 | $32,361* | 0.93 | |
| National Median | — | $37,000* | — | $19,354* | 0.52 |
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 Washington State College of Ohio, approximately 27% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 7 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.