Marketing at Loyola Marymount University

LMU's marketing graduates start just above the state median but see exceptional trajectory, jumping from $48,281 to $70,419 in four years—a 46% increase that outpaces typical career progression in this field. While first-year earnings land at the 60th percentile among California's 28 marketing programs, that strong upward movement suggests the program's value compounds over time, possibly reflecting the strength of LMU's Los Angeles network and alumni connections in major media and entertainment markets.

The $25,000 debt load sits slightly above the state median but remains manageable with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.52, meaning graduates owe roughly half their starting salary. This is reasonable for a private university in Los Angeles, especially given that earnings eclipse most public alternatives within a few years. The program ranks in the middle tier of California schools for starting pay—trailing Santa Clara and USD by $10,000—but the rapid growth trajectory narrows that gap considerably.

For families weighing LMU's higher tuition against public options, the calculus depends on patience. This isn't the highest-earning marketing program on day one, but the earnings acceleration is notable. If your student can manage the debt load through those early years, the investment appears to pay off as they establish themselves in LA's competitive marketing landscape.