Marketing at California State University-San Marcos

Cal State San Marcos marketing graduates start below both state and national averages—$43,134 versus a California median of $48,229—but they catch up quickly. Within four years, earnings jump 46% to reach $63,101, surpassing not just the state median but landing graduates near the top of California's public universities for this major. That trajectory matters more than the modest starting point, especially when you consider the manageable $19,032 in debt, which sits well below both state and national averages.

What makes this particularly compelling is the return on investment timeline. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44 means graduates owe less than half their first-year salary, and with strong income growth through their twenties, the degree pays for itself relatively quickly. The school serves a substantial population of Pell Grant recipients (44%) and maintains a 96% admission rate, making it accessible to students who might not get into more selective programs that charge significantly more.

The real question is whether you're comfortable with that first year or two of below-average earnings. If your child can weather a slower start—perhaps living at home or taking a lower-paying first role—the long-term numbers look solid. But if immediate earning power matters because of family financial constraints, one of the state schools with stronger starting salaries might warrant consideration despite potentially higher costs.