Median Earnings (1yr)
$43,169
40th percentile (60th in SC)
Median Debt
$27,000
11% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.63
Manageable
Sample Size
26
Limited data

Analysis

With only a handful of graduates in the dataset, Limestone's marketing program shows numbers that slightly trail the national median ($43,169 vs. $44,728) but actually outperform most South Carolina programs at the 60th percentile statewide. The $27,000 debt load is remarkably low—landing in just the 5th percentile nationally—which creates a workable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.63. For context, this means graduates would owe roughly eight months of their first-year salary, a manageable burden that gives them financial breathing room early in their careers.

The small sample size demands caution here, as outcomes for a dozen graduates can swing wildly year to year depending on individual circumstances. That said, the combination of below-average debt and above-average performance within South Carolina (where tuition costs typically favor in-state students) suggests Limestone keeps costs reasonable without sacrificing competitive positioning. You're looking at earnings comparable to Anderson University but with a pathway that seems less financially risky than pricier state flagships.

For SC families prioritizing affordability and local career opportunities, these numbers work. The 98% admission rate means accessibility isn't a barrier, though you'll want to verify recent placement outcomes directly with the school given data limitations. If your student needs a marketing degree without crushing debt and plans to work regionally, Limestone delivers on that specific promise.

Where Limestone University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally

Limestone UniversityOther marketing programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Limestone University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Limestone University graduates earn $43k, placing them in the 40th percentile of all marketing bachelors programs nationally.

Compare to Similar Programs in South Carolina

Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in South Carolina (17 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Limestone University$43,169—$27,0000.63
University of South Carolina-Columbia$52,374$62,400$23,7500.45
Clemson University$47,606$62,978$23,2500.49
College of Charleston$40,723$56,514$22,2500.55
Anderson University$37,066$47,789$25,2500.68
Coastal Carolina University$35,924$53,971$26,0000.72
National Median$44,728—$24,2670.54

Other Marketing Programs in South Carolina

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across South Carolina schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia
$12,688$52,374$23,750
Clemson University
Clemson
$15,554$47,606$23,250
College of Charleston
Charleston
$12,978$40,723$22,250
Anderson University
Anderson
$33,580$37,066$25,250
Coastal Carolina University
Conway
$11,640$35,924$26,000

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 Limestone University, approximately 43% 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 26 graduates with reported earnings and 41 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.