Analysis
Colorado State University Global's marketing degree commands a premium price, but the earnings justify the investment—at least initially. Graduates earn $55,814 in their first year, placing them in the 95th percentile nationally and well above the $44,728 national median for marketing majors. The $29,956 in typical debt translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.54, meaning graduates can theoretically pay off loans in about half a year's salary. That's a stronger financial position than most marketing programs deliver.
The state comparison reveals a more nuanced picture. While these graduates out-earn the Colorado median of $52,216, they rank only in the 60th percentile among the state's six marketing programs—middle of the pack despite the higher debt load (compared to Colorado's $24,000 median). Metropolitan State University of Denver produces similar earnings with potentially less debt, which matters for Colorado families weighing in-state options.
The flat earnings trajectory is worth noting: graduates see virtually no income growth between years one and four, moving from $55,814 to just $56,771. For a program that costs more than typical in-state options, parents should expect their graduate to start strong rather than build momentum over time. If your child needs immediate earning power and can handle the moderate debt, this program delivers. But if you're banking on significant salary growth or looking for the best value among Colorado schools, compare carefully with Metropolitan State before committing.
Where Colorado State University Global Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Colorado State University Global 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado State University Global | $55,814 | $56,771 | +2% |
| University of Pennsylvania | $82,553 | $117,639 | +43% |
| Georgetown University | $74,819 | $95,343 | +27% |
| University of Denver | $50,016 | $73,375 | +47% |
| Metropolitan State University of Denver | $52,216 | $57,726 | +11% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Colorado
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Colorado (6 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,400 | $55,814 | $56,771 | $29,956 | 0.54 | |
| $10,780 | $52,216 | $57,726 | $24,000 | 0.46 | |
| $59,340 | $50,016 | $73,375 | $22,739 | 0.45 | |
| 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 Colorado State University Global, approximately 24% 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 98 graduates with reported earnings and 128 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.