Analysis
Campbell University's marketing program sits in the middle tier among North Carolina schools—landing at the 40th percentile statewide—with first-year earnings of $40,572 that lag both the state median ($43,619) and national average ($44,728) by about $3,000-$4,000. However, graduates carry notably lower debt at $18,994, which is roughly $4,500 less than typical NC marketing graduates and nearly $6,000 below the national figure. This creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.47, meaning graduates owe less than half their first-year salary—a manageable starting point.
The earnings trajectory shows steady growth to $45,537 by year four, which helps graduates catch up to their peers elsewhere. While this won't match what Elon or NC A&T grads earn, the lower debt burden matters: Campbell graduates enter the workforce with thousands less to repay, which translates to real financial flexibility in those crucial early career years. The 94% admission rate suggests accessibility, though it also means the program isn't highly selective.
For families weighing this option, Campbell offers a reasonable path into marketing with lighter debt than most alternatives. The earnings aren't exceptional, but they're solid enough—and the debt advantage means graduates won't spend years digging out from under loans. If your student has stronger offers from Elon or NC State, those merit serious consideration, but Campbell provides a functional middle ground between cost and outcomes.
Where Campbell University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Campbell 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Campbell University | $40,572 | $45,537 | +12% |
| Elon University | $55,893 | $75,472 | +35% |
| East Carolina University | $45,870 | $60,002 | +31% |
| North Carolina A & T State University | $48,042 | $57,147 | +19% |
| University of North Carolina at Charlotte | $43,619 | $55,979 | +28% |
Compare to Similar Programs in North Carolina
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in North Carolina (22 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $40,410 | $40,572 | $45,537 | $18,994 | 0.47 | |
| $44,536 | $55,893 | $75,472 | $21,500 | 0.38 | |
| $6,748 | $48,042 | $57,147 | $27,375 | 0.57 | |
| $43,936 | $45,883 | — | $27,000 | 0.59 | |
| $35,536 | $45,880 | — | $26,354 | 0.57 | |
| $7,361 | $45,870 | $60,002 | $24,992 | 0.54 | |
| National Median | — | $44,728 | — | $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 Campbell University, approximately 33% 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 30 graduates with reported earnings and 32 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.