Analysis
An associate's degree in marketing from Dallas College comes with an estimated debt load of $15,597—somewhat below what similar programs typically carry nationally. When paired with first-year earnings around $42,000 based on comparable associate-level marketing programs, the math works out to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37, suggesting graduates could potentially manage repayment within a reasonable timeframe if actual outcomes align with these estimates.
The challenge here is uncertainty. With only eight schools offering this credential in Texas and no reported data from any of them, we're working from national benchmarks that may not reflect Dallas's specific job market. Marketing roles vary widely—from entry-level retail positions to more specialized digital marketing work—and an associate's degree sits at the lower end of credentials in this field. The 23% Pell grant rate suggests Dallas College serves a more economically advantaged population than typical community colleges, which might indicate better student outcomes, but without actual graduate data, that's speculative.
For families considering this program, the estimated figures suggest manageable debt relative to potential earnings, but recognize you're making this decision without knowing how Dallas College's specific graduates have fared. If your student plans to transfer to a four-year program, this could be a cost-effective start; if this is the terminal degree, investigate local employer demand for associate-level marketing credentials carefully.
Where Dallas College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing associates's 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2,370 | $41,955* | — | $15,597* | — | |
| $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 Dallas College, approximately 23% 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.