Analysis
A two-year marketing degree from Clark State appears positioned near the national earnings benchmark, with similar programs across the country producing median first-year earnings around $42,000. That figure notably exceeds what most Ohio marketing associate programs deliver—the state median sits at just $32,668, suggesting Clark State's regional economy or curriculum might offer advantages over peer schools. The estimated $15,600 in debt is also lower than both state and national medians, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37 that should be manageable for most graduates.
The challenge is that these are estimates drawn from national and institutional patterns, not tracked outcomes from Clark State's actual marketing graduates. The program's small cohort size means we can't verify whether students here achieve those $42,000 earnings or stay below that debt threshold. Cincinnati State's reported $32,668 outcome for marketing associates shows what's actually happening at one comparable Ohio school—substantially lower than the estimates suggest for Clark State.
For parents weighing this investment, the estimated numbers look reasonable if they hold true. A debt load under $16,000 for credentials that could lead to $42,000 positions represents a sound financial start. But confirm the program's job placement rate and whether local employers actively recruit from Clark State. Without verified graduate outcomes, you'll want concrete evidence that this specific program delivers on its promise.
Where Clark State College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Marketing associates's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (21 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $4,200 | $41,955* | — | $15,597* | — | |
| $5,400 | $32,668* | — | $18,341* | 0.56 | |
| 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 Clark State College, approximately 36% 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.