Analysis
A debt load of $23,500 for a marketing degree isn't unreasonable when peer programs in Texas suggest first-year earnings around $44,000. That 0.53 debt-to-earnings ratio falls comfortably below the worrisome 1.0 threshold, meaning graduates from comparable programs can typically manage their loans on an entry-level salary. The estimated figures here align almost perfectly with both state and national medians for marketing bachelor's degrees, suggesting East Texas Baptist produces outcomes in line with the broader field.
The challenge lies in the gap between what's typical and what's possible. Top marketing programs in TexasβUT Austin, TCU, Baylorβreport first-year earnings $15,000 to $25,000 higher than the state median. That difference matters when you're starting a career and building financial momentum. Marketing is competitive and network-dependent, and graduates from more prominent universities often have advantages in landing higher-paying roles at major corporations or agencies.
For families considering this program, the manageable debt picture is the good news, but understand you're looking at estimated outcomes based on similar Texas programs, not tracked results from East Texas Baptist specifically. If your child is targeting marketing roles in Dallas or Houston metro areas where competition is fierce, consider whether this program can provide the connections and credential recognition to compete effectively. The financial foundation appears solid; the career trajectory will depend heavily on what your student makes of the opportunities available.
Where East Texas Baptist University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (57 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $30,050 | $43,941* | β | $23,500* | β | |
| $57,220 | $68,497* | $81,394 | $19,250* | 0.28 | |
| β | $63,570* | $53,053 | $45,070* | 0.71 | |
| $11,678 | $59,428* | $74,178 | $19,625* | 0.33 | |
| $54,844 | $57,162* | $59,964 | $21,775* | 0.38 | |
| $51,352 | $55,928* | $60,350 | $23,500* | 0.42 | |
| National Median | β | $44,728* | β | $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 East Texas Baptist University, approximately 31% 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 median of 41 similar programs in TX. Actual outcomes may vary.