Accounting at Caribbean University-Ponce

Ponce, PR · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Accounting and Related Services
36 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
37
Optimistic
36
Base Case
43
Pessimistic
Earnings $26,619/yr (-50% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (62% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (451,900 openings/yr)
ROI 15.5x earnings multiple
Ranked #712 of 714 Accounting and Related Services programs

Program Analysis

The earnings trajectory for this program presents a significant challenge, reflecting the unique economic landscape of Puerto Rico rather than the general strength of the accounting field. The local labor market in Ponce often means lower starting salaries and slower wage growth across industries, including accounting and related services, compared to the mainland U.S. Graduates may find themselves in bookkeeping, administrative, or small local business accounting roles, which typically don't command the higher salaries seen in corporate finance or large auditing firms. Considering the high AI risk for many foundational accounting tasks, your career path will increasingly demand specialized skills. To maximize your earning potential, focus on gaining practical experience through internships, pursue certifications beyond your degree, or develop expertise in areas like data analytics, forensic accounting, or tax law. These specializations can help you stand out and secure roles with better long-term prospects, potentially even outside the immediate region if that's an option for you.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Accounting graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $350K $370K $384K
Earnings Multiple 14.7x 15.5x 16.1x
Probability of Field Employment 76% 65% 45%
DegreeOutlook Score 37 36 43
4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$23,864
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$26,720
-12% less than sticker · See by income
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$23,635
Small cohort — data may not reflect typical outcomes

About Caribbean University-Ponce

a compact campus enrolling 419 students in Ponce, PR. Pell Grant recipients make up 75% of the student body — a marker of economic diversity.

See all programs and financial aid at Caribbean University-Ponce →

Top Career Paths

Financial managers $161,700/yr
Financial risk specialists $106,000/yr
Financial and investment analysts $101,350/yr
View all 14 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Accounting at Other Schools

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Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Caribbean University-Ponce's Accounting program score?
This program scores 36/100 — on the lower end for Accounting. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
How vulnerable is Accounting to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Accounting careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 62% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
Why are Accounting earnings lower at Caribbean University-Ponce?
Lower starting pay at Caribbean University-Ponce may reflect local labor market conditions rather than program quality. Many graduates see convergence with national averages within 3-5 years.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →