Analysis
In Nebraska, accounting bachelor's degrees produce first-year earnings ranging from roughly $52,000 to $68,000, and York University's estimated $54,785 places it squarely in the middle of this pack—right alongside the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and just above Bellevue University. These estimates, drawn from other Nebraska accounting programs, suggest typical outcomes for the state rather than York-specific results. The estimated $26,893 in debt sits close to what's typical both statewide and nationally, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49 that's manageable by standard measures.
What matters here is whether York can deliver outcomes comparable to its state peers. The school serves a substantial population of Pell grant recipients (44%), suggesting it provides access to students who might not attend pricier alternatives like Creighton. If York's actual graduates match these peer-based projections, the financial proposition is reasonable—debt that a mid-$50K salary can handle without extraordinary strain.
The uncertainty cuts both ways: York might outperform these estimates, or it might fall short. Before committing, press the school for placement rates and typical starting salaries for their accounting graduates specifically. If they can demonstrate outcomes in line with these peer benchmarks—or better—this represents a practical path into a stable profession without the premium price tag of Nebraska's top-tier programs.
Where York University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Nebraska
Accounting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Nebraska (10 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $21,600 | $54,785* | — | $26,893* | — | |
| $47,000 | $68,070* | $79,988 | $26,893* | 0.40 | |
| $41,658 | $60,923* | — | —* | — | |
| $10,108 | $54,785* | $62,681 | $21,500* | 0.39 | |
| $8,886 | $53,819* | $59,340 | $40,350* | 0.75 | |
| $40,491 | $52,160* | $59,830 | $26,324* | 0.50 | |
| National Median | — | $53,694* | — | $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 York University, approximately 44% 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 5 similar programs in NE. Actual outcomes may vary.