Analysis
Similar marketing associate programs nationally suggest first-year earnings around $42,000, which means graduates would be earning roughly $2.70 for every dollar borrowed—a workable but not exceptional return on a two-year degree. The estimated $15,600 in debt sits noticeably below the national median of $19,149, suggesting Bellevue College may offer a more affordable path than many peers, though we're working with limited direct evidence since neither the earnings nor debt figures come from this specific program's graduates.
Washington's marketing associate programs typically produce stronger outcomes, with a state median near $44,750—about $2,800 more than what comparable national programs suggest. If Bellevue's actual graduates track closer to other Washington schools like Spokane Falls Community College, the value proposition improves meaningfully. But without confirmed data from Bellevue itself, you're betting that local market advantages will apply here as they do elsewhere in the state.
For anxious parents, the question comes down to risk tolerance. The estimated debt load is manageable, and marketing skills transfer across industries, which provides some safety net. But you're making this investment without knowing whether Bellevue's career services, employer connections, or curriculum actually deliver Washington-level outcomes or merely national-average results. If your student is committed to marketing and this is the most convenient option, the downside appears limited—just recognize you're relying on peer program performance rather than a proven track record from this specific school.
Where Bellevue College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Washington
Marketing associates's programs at peer institutions in Washington (11 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $4,305 | $41,955* | — | $15,597* | — | |
| $4,058 | $44,748* | — | $19,652* | 0.44 | |
| National Median | — | $41,955* | — | $19,149* | 0.46 |
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 Bellevue College, approximately 10% 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 18 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.