Analysis
Georgia College & State University's marketing program delivers earnings that outpace most competitors in the stateβgraduates earn more in their first year than the median graduate from UGA makes, placing this program in the 60th percentile statewide. That's particularly impressive given the university's 88% admission rate and modest SAT profile, suggesting the program itself adds substantial value beyond selectivity.
The numbers tell a practical story: first-year earnings of $49,540 against $24,000 in debt means graduates typically owe less than half their starting salary, a manageable ratio that compares favorably to typical marketing programs nationally. Earnings growth to nearly $59,000 by year four demonstrates career momentum rather than stagnation. While the debt level sits near the national median for marketing programs, it's actually below Georgia's state median of $26,000, meaning students here are borrowing less than peers at many competing schools while earning more.
For families weighing Georgia's public universities, this program punches above its weight class. It costs less than most alternatives in the state while delivering outcomes that rival or exceed programs at more selective institutions. That combination of lower debt and higher-than-average earnings makes it a smart choice for students who want strong career prospects without the premium price tag of Georgia's flagship schools.
Where Georgia College & State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Georgia College & State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia College & State University | $49,540 | $58,977 | +19% |
| University of Georgia | $51,951 | $66,940 | +29% |
| Georgia State University | $40,414 | $59,099 | +46% |
| Kennesaw State University | $47,158 | $55,121 | +17% |
| Georgia Southern University | $46,640 | $54,454 | +17% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (26 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,998 | $49,540 | $58,977 | $24,000 | 0.48 | |
| $11,180 | $51,951 | $66,940 | $20,000 | 0.38 | |
| $8,122 | $49,144 | $44,873 | $27,000 | 0.55 | |
| $5,786 | $47,158 | $55,121 | $25,198 | 0.53 | |
| $5,905 | $46,640 | $54,454 | $25,762 | 0.55 | |
| $40,416 | $45,374 | $42,791 | $26,000 | 0.57 | |
| 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 Georgia College & State University, approximately 16% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 143 graduates with reported earnings and 91 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.