Marketing at Loyola University New Orleans

A $32,000 starting salary with $26,000 in debt represents a troubling outcome for a marketing degree, even accounting for the small sample size that makes these figures less reliable. This program ranks in the 5th percentile nationally—meaning 95% of marketing programs produce better earnings—and falls well short of Louisiana's state median of $37,667. When nearby competitors like UL Monroe ($43,652) and Southeastern Louisiana ($40,650) deliver 35-40% higher starting salaries, the value gap becomes difficult to justify, especially given Loyola's likely higher tuition costs as a private institution.

The 0.81 debt-to-earnings ratio isn't catastrophic, and the actual debt burden sits close to national norms. However, marketing graduates typically need strong early earnings momentum to advance into management roles—$32,000 puts these graduates at a significant disadvantage compared to peers. While the 88% admission rate and substantial Pell grant population (37%) suggest Loyola serves students who might face barriers elsewhere, families should recognize they're paying a premium for outcomes that lag behind more affordable state schools.

With fewer than 30 graduates in this sample, these numbers might not tell the complete story. But unless Loyola offers unique industry connections or specialized training that justifies the investment, Louisiana families have multiple better options that combine lower costs with stronger career starts.