Analysis
Looking at comparable marketing programs in Ohio, graduates typically earn around $47,600 in their first year—a figure that aligns with both state and national benchmarks for this degree. With estimated debt of $27,000, that translates to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.57, meaning you'd borrow roughly seven months' worth of first-year salary. This sits slightly above the state median debt of $25,000 but remains within a manageable range for a bachelor's degree.
The challenge lies in what we don't know. Because Hiram's graduate cohort was too small for the Department of Education to publish actual outcomes, we're relying on broader patterns from Ohio marketing programs. The state shows considerable variation—top programs like Miami University and Ohio State report first-year earnings near $56,000-$59,000, while Hiram's estimates fall closer to the middle of the pack. Whether Hiram's smaller program size (evident in that 93% admission rate) means more personalized attention or fewer networking opportunities is something campus visits and alumni conversations would need to clarify.
The practical reality: a $27,000 debt load on $47,600 in earnings translates to monthly payments around $300 on a standard ten-year plan—roughly 8% of gross income. That's workable if those earning estimates hold true for Hiram specifically, but with no track record to verify, you're banking on this small program delivering outcomes similar to its state peers.
Where Hiram College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (51 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $26,265 | $47,602* | — | $27,000* | — | |
| $17,809 | $59,043* | $75,634 | $21,963* | 0.37 | |
| $12,859 | $56,465* | $69,870 | $21,198* | 0.38 | |
| $6,178 | $55,022* | $64,113 | $25,000* | 0.45 | |
| $6,178 | $55,022* | $64,113 | $25,000* | 0.45 | |
| $6,178 | $55,022* | $64,113 | $25,000* | 0.45 | |
| 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 Hiram College, approximately 32% 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 36 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.