Marketing at Ferris State University

Ferris State's Marketing program starts graduates at $39,668—below both the state and national medians—but here's the twist: earnings jump 62% by year four to $64,239, eventually surpassing every other public marketing program in Michigan except Michigan State. That trajectory matters more than the initial paycheck, especially when you're only carrying $25,450 in debt (manageable at 0.64 times first-year earnings).

The gap to close is real, though. Sitting at the 40th percentile among Michigan programs, Ferris graduates initially earn about $5,000 less than the state median and roughly $15,000 less than peers from Michigan State or Central Michigan. If your student needs strong immediate earnings to handle expenses or loans, those first couple years could feel tight. But by year four, Ferris grads are out-earning what most marketing majors make anywhere in the state—a pattern suggesting the program's career preparation kicks in once graduates establish themselves professionally.

For families prioritizing long-term value over immediate returns, this works: reasonable debt plus strong mid-career earnings creates solid ROI. Just plan for a slower financial start than you'd see at the state's flagship programs.