Analysis
California's Associate in Accounting typically leads to first-year earnings around $38,000, though peer programs show considerable variation—from over $41,000 at some private colleges to under $35,000 at other community colleges. With estimated earnings around $37,000 based on national benchmarks, Yuba College appears to land in the middle of this range, though we're working without this specific program's actual graduate outcomes.
The estimated debt load of roughly $16,000 is notably lower than what similar programs typically carry (around $19,000 nationally and $17,000 across California). Combined with first-year earnings in the $37,000 range, this produces a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.43—meaning graduates would owe less than half their first-year salary. That's manageable territory for an entry-level accounting position, particularly given that many accounting roles offer clearer advancement paths than other two-year degrees.
The challenge is uncertainty. Without reported data from Yuba's actual graduates, you're betting on whether this program performs like its peers. For families seeking a lower-cost entry into accounting, the estimated numbers suggest reasonable value—but confirm what local employers think of Yuba graduates and whether students typically transfer to complete a bachelor's degree, which significantly improves accounting career prospects.
Where Yuba College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all accounting associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Accounting associates's programs at peer institutions in California (110 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $1,128 | $37,001* | — | $15,979* | — | |
| — | $41,351* | — | $17,375* | 0.42 | |
| $1,364 | $34,604* | — | —* | — | |
| 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 Yuba College, 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.
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 national median of 118 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.