Analysis
Manchester's marketing program produces first-year earnings of $37,351—roughly $10,000 below Indiana's median for marketing graduates and $7,000 below the national average. Among Indiana's 27 marketing programs, this places in just the 25th percentile, meaning three-quarters of comparable in-state options deliver better initial outcomes. For context, Indiana has several strong alternatives: Notre Dame ($63,906), Butler ($60,438), and Purdue ($56,668) all substantially outperform this program.
The debt load of $25,250 translates to a 0.68 debt-to-earnings ratio—manageable by federal standards, but concerning given the below-average starting salary. Students here are borrowing typical amounts but earning significantly less, which could make repayment feel burdensome even if the numbers technically work. The small sample size (under 30 graduates) adds uncertainty, meaning these figures might not represent the typical experience.
For an anxious parent, the calculus here is straightforward: even accounting for Manchester's accessible 91% admission rate, you're likely paying similar tuition and taking on similar debt for considerably weaker earnings outcomes than other Indiana schools. Unless there are compelling non-financial reasons to choose Manchester—strong family ties, specific campus culture, or unique opportunities—this program appears to underdeliver compared to readily available alternatives within the state.
Where Manchester University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Manchester University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Indiana
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Indiana (27 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $37,090 | $37,351 | — | $25,250 | 0.68 | |
| $62,693 | $63,906 | $73,166 | $19,000 | 0.30 | |
| $45,980 | $60,438 | $61,624 | $26,000 | 0.43 | |
| $9,992 | $56,668 | — | $19,264 | 0.34 | |
| $35,600 | $51,244 | $63,152 | — | — | |
| $9,576 | $51,244 | $63,152 | — | — | |
| 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 Manchester University, approximately 44% 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 19 graduates with reported earnings and 22 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.