Analysis
Augsburg University's marketing program sits in an interesting position: it beats the national median by nearly $3,000 in first-year earnings, yet falls just below Minnesota's state median of $49,439. This gap matters for Minnesota families comparing in-state options, as the program lands at the 40th percentile statewideβmeaning six out of ten marketing programs in Minnesota deliver higher starting salaries.
The $25,000 median debt is reasonable and exactly matches both the state median and national average, translating to a manageable 0.53 debt-to-earnings ratio. More encouraging is the 23% earnings growth trajectory, with graduates reaching $58,652 by year four. That's solid progression, though it still trails Minnesota's flagship by nearly $1,000 even at that point. Given Augsburg's 77% admission rate and the fact that over half its students receive Pell grants, the program appears to serve its access mission while delivering outcomes that won't bury graduates in debt.
For Minnesota families weighing options, this program represents a middle-of-the-road investment. It's neither a bargain nor a premium choice within the state, but the debt load is controlled and earnings growth is steady. If your student is choosing between Augsburg and Minnesota's top-tier programs, they should understand they're trading roughly $10,000-12,000 in starting salary for potentially better access and a different campus environment.
Where Augsburg University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Augsburg 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Augsburg University | $47,563 | $58,652 | +23% |
| University of Minnesota-Twin Cities | $59,609 | $76,482 | +28% |
| University of St Thomas | $50,563 | $66,692 | +32% |
| Minnesota State University-Mankato | $44,780 | $63,775 | +42% |
| University of Minnesota-Duluth | $53,800 | $63,722 | +18% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Minnesota
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Minnesota (21 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $43,942 | $47,563 | $58,652 | $25,000 | 0.53 | |
| $16,488 | $59,609 | $76,482 | $22,750 | 0.38 | |
| $14,436 | $55,495 | β | $45,406 | 0.82 | |
| $43,160 | $55,158 | $59,070 | $18,735 | 0.34 | |
| $14,318 | $53,800 | $63,722 | $25,000 | 0.46 | |
| $40,454 | $52,732 | $52,354 | $25,000 | 0.47 | |
| National Median | β | $44,728 | β | $24,267 | 0.54 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with marketing graduates
Advertising and Promotions Managers
Marketing Managers
Sales Managers
Fundraising Managers
Web and Digital Interface Designers
Video Game Designers
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists
Search Marketing Strategists
Fundraisers
Survey Researchers
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 Augsburg University, approximately 52% 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 55 graduates with reported earnings and 55 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.