Analysis
Similar marketing programs in Missouri suggest first-year earnings around $42,900βsquarely at the state median but trailing the national benchmark by about $2,000. While that gap isn't dramatic, it's worth noting that peer institutions in the state, from Northwest Missouri State to Missouri Western, are producing graduates who start in the $43,000-$48,000 range, with Washington University's program delivering substantially higher outcomes. The estimated debt load of $24,599 creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.57, which falls into manageable territory but doesn't offer the kind of financial cushion that would make this a slam-dunk choice.
The real question for a family considering Maryville is whether this program justifies its cost when state alternatives appear to deliver comparable or better starting salaries. With 36% of students on Pell grants and a 94% admission rate, Maryville serves an accessible market, but accessibility alone doesn't determine value. Marketing degrees typically require graduates to build their earning power over time, so starting at the state median means you're beginning from middle-of-the-pack rather than with a competitive advantage.
Given the estimates involved and the competitive landscape in Missouri, families should request actual graduate outcome data directly from Maryville and compare net price carefully against state universities that report stronger earnings. The debt level is reasonable, but only if the career support and network justify choosing this program over demonstrably stronger alternatives nearby.
Where Maryville University of Saint Louis Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Missouri
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Missouri (21 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $27,166 | $42,900* | β | $24,599* | β | |
| $62,982 | $70,819* | β | $17,500* | 0.25 | |
| $10,181 | $48,557* | $54,067 | $20,500* | 0.42 | |
| $9,024 | $43,641* | $53,891 | $25,977* | 0.60 | |
| $9,739 | $43,320* | $59,317 | $21,500* | 0.50 | |
| $9,800 | $43,070* | β | $25,950* | 0.60 | |
| National Median | β | $44,728* | β | $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 Maryville University of Saint Louis, approximately 36% 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 median of 10 similar programs in MO. Actual outcomes may vary.