Marketing at Davenport University

Davenport's marketing graduates earn slightly below both the Michigan median ($44,379) and the national benchmark ($44,728), landing at the 40th percentile in both comparisons. Starting at $43,093 and reaching $46,587 after four years, these outcomes fall notably short of what marketing majors earn at Michigan State ($57,275) or even Wayne State ($47,929). The modest 8% earnings growth suggests limited early career momentum, though the debt load of $25,000 keeps the financial picture from becoming problematic.

The program's value rests primarily on accessibility rather than standout outcomes. With a 97% admission rate and relatively affordable debt burden—the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.58 is manageable—this becomes a viable option for students who might not gain admission to more selective Michigan schools. However, parents should recognize they're accepting middling career outcomes as part of that tradeoff. The earnings gap between Davenport and top-tier Michigan programs widens to over $14,000 annually, which compounds significantly over a career.

For families prioritizing a straightforward path to a marketing degree without heavy debt, Davenport accomplishes that limited goal. But students with the grades to attend Michigan State or even Wayne State would likely see substantially better returns on their investment, making this more of a safety school choice than a destination program for marketing careers.