Analysis
Fisher College's marketing bachelor's sits right at the Massachusetts median when you look at comparable programs—estimated first-year earnings around $46,500 against roughly $27,000 in debt. That 0.58 debt-to-earnings ratio puts this squarely in manageable territory, though the estimation reflects limited graduate sample sizes rather than any deficiency in the school's reporting.
What's worth noting is the stark gap between Fisher and Boston's elite business schools. Boston College marketing grads earn $66,000 their first year out, and even UMass-Amherst hits $58,000. That $12,000-20,000 difference compounds significantly over a career. Fisher serves a different student population—42% receive Pell grants compared to much lower rates at those competitors—but the earnings gap matters regardless of how you got there.
The debt load itself isn't alarming, sitting near both state and national medians for marketing degrees. But when peer programs in Massachusetts produce such varied outcomes, the specific institution clearly matters more than the major alone. If your child has competitive academic credentials, the premium schools deliver substantially higher returns. If Fisher's accessibility and 71% admission rate make it the realistic path to a bachelor's degree, the estimated numbers suggest it's not a financial disaster—just understand you're likely looking at middle-of-the-pack marketing outcomes in a state where top programs pull significantly ahead.
Where Fisher College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (28 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $35,013 | $46,491* | — | $26,949* | — | |
| $67,680 | $66,227* | $89,379 | $18,000* | 0.27 | |
| $58,150 | $60,447* | $77,885 | $26,000* | 0.43 | |
| $17,357 | $58,462* | $62,209 | $23,750* | 0.41 | |
| $49,414 | $55,314* | $62,024 | $27,000* | 0.49 | |
| $54,500 | $50,025* | $74,083 | $26,000* | 0.52 | |
| 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 Fisher College, approximately 42% 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 13 similar programs in MA. Actual outcomes may vary.