Accounting and Related Services at SOWELA Technical Community College
a compact campus enrolling 2,979 students in Lake Charles, LA.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $31,019/yr, roughly in line with the $35,807 national median for Accounting and Related Services. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.
The 38.0x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. Trade programs often deliver strong ratios, and this one is a standout.
AI risk is moderate — 62% task exposure — and the 0% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Accounting and Related Services graduates.
At #114 out of 176 programs, SOWELA Technical Community College's financial outcomes for Accounting and Related Services trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth is modest: $31,019 to $31,658 over five years (2% gain). This trade may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.
With 5 registered apprenticeships mapped to Accounting and Related Services, graduates have substantial options for hands-on training paths that pay from day one.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Accounting and Related Services graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Financial managers | $161,700 | +14.8% | 50% |
| Financial risk specialists | $106,000 | +6.5% | 47% |
| Financial and investment analysts | $101,350 | +5.7% | 54% |
About Accounting and Related Services Careers
Your career will likely start in a role like a bookkeeping or accounting clerk, where your day-to-day involves using software like QuickBooks to reconcile bank statements, manage invoices, and process payroll for a small business or as part of a larger corporate team. You’ll be the person ensuring the financial data is accurate and organized.
Read the full Accounting and Related Services career guide →
Compare & Explore
Accounting and Related Services Overview
Accounting and Related Services at Other Schools
Other Majors at SOWELA Technical Community College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.