Analysis
Ohio's marketing landscape shows significant variation, with peer programs in the state reporting median earnings around $33,000โwell below what similar national programs typically produce. James A. Rhodes State College's estimated first-year earnings of $42,000 would place this program substantially above the state median, though these figures are derived from national benchmarks rather than tracked outcomes from Rhodes graduates specifically. The estimated $15,600 in debt sits below both state and national medians for associate marketing programs, suggesting relatively modest borrowing.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37 indicates manageable debt if the earnings estimate holds true, meaning graduates could potentially dedicate about a third of their first-year salary to repayment if needed. However, the gap between estimated national-level earnings and actual reported outcomes from Ohio programs raises questions about whether Rhodes graduates will match those higher figures or land closer to the $33,000 seen elsewhere in the state.
With limited actual data available, your best move is examining what Rhodes marketing graduates are doing in their first jobs and whether the program has strong employer connections in Lima and surrounding areas. The low debt load provides a cushion if earnings fall short of estimates, but you'll want concrete evidence that this program's outcomes justify even that modest investment before committing.
Where James A. Rhodes State College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Marketing associates's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (21 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $4,657 | $41,955* | โ | $15,597* | โ | |
| $5,400 | $32,668* | โ | $18,341* | 0.56 | |
| National Median | โ | $41,955* | โ | $19,149* | 0.46 |
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 James A. Rhodes State College, approximately 15% 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 national median of 18 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.