Specialized Sales, Merchandising and Marketing Operations at Baylor University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Baylor's specialized marketing program significantly outperforms most alternatives, with first-year earnings of $43,414 placing it in the 85th percentile nationally—about 21% above what typical graduates in this field earn. While it ranks in the middle of Texas programs (60th percentile in the state), that's because it's competing against schools like TCU where tuition runs considerably higher. Among the more accessible Texas options, Baylor delivers competitive outcomes with debt levels that are actually manageable.
The financial picture here works in students' favor. At just over $23,000 in median debt—below both national and state medians for this program—graduates face a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.53, meaning debt equals roughly half of first year income. The 30% earnings jump to $56,399 by year four suggests strong career trajectory, which matters for a field where professional networks and skill development drive advancement.
For parents weighing the private school price tag, Baylor delivers tangible returns that justify the investment. You're getting earnings that beat three-quarters of similar programs nationally, with debt loads that are lower than average. The moderate sample size means these outcomes are reasonably consistent across graduates. If your student is serious about a career in sales or merchandising, this program offers a clear path to solid mid-career earnings without the debt burden that often accompanies private university degrees.
Where Baylor University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all specialized sales, merchandising and marketing operations bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Baylor University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Baylor University graduates earn $43k, placing them in the 85th percentile of all specialized sales, merchandising and marketing operations bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Specialized Sales, Merchandising and Marketing Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (8 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baylor University | $43,414 | $56,399 | $23,115 | 0.53 |
| Texas Christian University | $42,712 | $49,823 | $19,500 | 0.46 |
| University of North Texas | $39,787 | $48,283 | $23,250 | 0.58 |
| Texas Tech University | $36,686 | $50,192 | $22,317 | 0.61 |
| Texas Woman's University | $35,299 | $45,697 | $23,108 | 0.65 |
| Texas State University | $33,040 | $48,908 | $24,156 | 0.73 |
| National Median | $35,806 | — | $26,750 | 0.75 |
Other Specialized Sales, Merchandising and Marketing Operations Programs in Texas
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Texas schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas Christian University Fort Worth | $57,220 | $42,712 | $19,500 |
| University of North Texas Denton | $11,164 | $39,787 | $23,250 |
| Texas Tech University Lubbock | $11,852 | $36,686 | $22,317 |
| Texas Woman's University Denton | $8,648 | $35,299 | $23,108 |
| Texas State University San Marcos | $11,450 | $33,040 | $24,156 |
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 Baylor University, approximately 13% 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 63 graduates with reported earnings and 66 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.