Analysis
Cincinnati State's marketing associate program produces first-year earnings of $32,668—well below the $42,000 national median for this degree, but right at the midpoint for Ohio. This state context matters: while the program ranks in just the 26th percentile nationally, it's actually performing at the 60th percentile among Ohio marketing associate programs, suggesting the issue may be more about the state's market conditions than this particular program.
The debt load of $18,341 translates to a 0.56 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates owe about 56% of their first year's salary. That's manageable but not generous—students will need to budget carefully for loan payments. For a two-year degree, this represents a relatively quick entry into the workforce, though the salary suggests entry-level retail or administrative marketing roles rather than strategic positions.
The main caveat: these numbers come from fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes could vary significantly. If your student is considering this program, the key question is whether they can leverage Cincinnati's business community for better opportunities, or if they'd be better served pursuing a bachelor's degree elsewhere for access to higher-paying marketing roles. For someone who needs to stay local and wants a quick credential, this performs reasonably well within Ohio's two-year marketing options.
Where Cincinnati State Technical and Community College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing associates's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Cincinnati State Technical and Community College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Marketing associates's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $5,400 | $32,668 | — | $18,341 | 0.56 | |
| $4,448 | $48,724 | $46,865 | $14,943 | 0.31 | |
| $16,450 | $45,084 | — | $22,546 | 0.50 | |
| $4,058 | $44,748 | — | $19,652 | 0.44 | |
| $10,899 | $44,293 | $44,488 | $27,167 | 0.61 | |
| $15,117 | $44,293 | $44,488 | $27,167 | 0.61 | |
| 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 Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, approximately 30% 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 20 graduates with reported earnings and 19 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.