Analysis
Weber State's accounting program punches above its weight, delivering top-20% national earnings with bottom-5% debt levelsβa rare combination that makes it one of Utah's best-kept secrets. While graduates earn somewhat less than BYU or University of Utah counterparts initially, the $16,424 median debt load is roughly $9,000 below the national average for accounting programs. That difference matters: a Weber State graduate enters their career with dramatically less financial pressure than peers at most institutions.
The earnings trajectory tells a stable story rather than an explosive one. Starting at $62,257 and climbing to $66,810 after four years represents solid but modest growth, suggesting graduates find steady accounting work rather than rocketing into high-finance positions. At 60th percentile within Utah, this program sits comfortably in the state's middle tierβrespectable, but not elite. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.26 means graduates owe roughly three months' salary, a manageable burden that allows career flexibility in those crucial early years.
For families balancing cost against career outcomes, Weber State offers something genuinely valuable: a legitimate accounting credential that won't bury your child in debt. The moderate sample size suggests consistent results across graduates. If your student is comparing this to pricier private schools or out-of-state options, the financial advantage here is substantial and immediate.
Where Weber State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Weber State University 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weber State University | $62,257 | $66,810 | +7% |
| Brigham Young University | $68,393 | $84,993 | +24% |
| University of Utah | $60,992 | $73,543 | +21% |
| Utah State University | $57,481 | $71,538 | +24% |
| Utah Valley University | $55,785 | $65,175 | +17% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Utah
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Utah (10 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $6,391 | $62,257 | $66,810 | $16,424 | 0.26 | |
| $6,496 | $68,393 | $84,993 | $8,727 | 0.13 | |
| $9,315 | $60,992 | $73,543 | $20,759 | 0.34 | |
| $8,300 | $58,784 | $61,734 | $22,489 | 0.38 | |
| $9,228 | $57,481 | $71,538 | $12,000 | 0.21 | |
| $6,270 | $55,785 | $65,175 | $17,250 | 0.31 | |
| 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 Weber State University, approximately 16% 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 54 graduates with reported earnings and 65 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.