Analysis
A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.58 suggests manageable repayment, but the uncertainty here matters more than usual. Based on similar marketing programs across Kentucky, graduates typically earn around $45,000 in their first year—right at the state median and essentially matching the national benchmark. The estimated $26,000 in debt sits slightly above what most Kentucky marketing programs report, though still within a range that shouldn't overwhelm entry-level salaries. What's less clear is whether Campbellsville's particular student outcomes—given its 98% admission rate and regional focus—align with these peer program estimates.
The Kentucky market shows remarkably tight clustering among marketing programs, with earnings spanning just $6,000 between UK at the top and Western Kentucky at the bottom. If Campbellsville performs near this middle range, the program represents a conventional investment: roughly half a year's salary in debt for credentials that should enable standard loan repayment. But unlike programs where you can see actual graduate outcomes, you're working from broader patterns rather than school-specific evidence.
The practical question is whether your student has admission to programs with reported data—like Murray State or Northern Kentucky, both showing similar earnings projections with documented results. If this is the only affordable option or offers unique advantages like location or support services, the estimated financials don't signal danger. But if choosing between this and schools with transparent outcomes at comparable costs, the known quantity typically beats the educated guess.
Where Campbellsville University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Kentucky
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kentucky (12 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $26,990 | $45,042* | — | $26,000* | — | |
| $13,212 | $48,100* | $58,361 | $24,225* | 0.50 | |
| $12,828 | $47,704* | $60,649 | $21,384* | 0.45 | |
| $10,896 | $45,386* | $55,123 | $22,387* | 0.49 | |
| $9,708 | $45,042* | $42,692 | $21,997* | 0.49 | |
| $11,436 | $42,478* | $53,494 | $23,250* | 0.55 | |
| 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 Campbellsville University, approximately 22% 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 median of 7 similar programs in KY. Actual outcomes may vary.