Analysis
Metropolitan State University of Denver's marketing program punches well above its weight nationally, landing graduates in the 84th percentile for earnings—around $7,500 more than the typical marketing graduate nationwide. Starting at $52,216 and climbing to nearly $58,000 by year four, these outcomes rival what you'd see from more selective institutions, especially impressive given Metro State's open-access mission and the fact that over a third of students receive Pell grants.
The catch is Colorado context. At the 60th percentile statewide, this program sits right in the middle of the pack among Colorado schools. Colorado State Global's graduates earn about $3,600 more initially, though Metro State's steady earnings growth helps close that gap over time. The $24,000 debt load is reasonable—roughly half of first-year earnings—and matches both state and national medians, making this a manageable financial commitment.
For Colorado families, this represents a solid, affordable path into marketing without the sticker shock of private universities. The program delivers reliably good outcomes for students from diverse economic backgrounds, and the 11% earnings growth suggests graduates aren't hitting a ceiling early. If your child needs an accessible entry point with strong earning potential that competes nationally, Metro State delivers without breaking the bank.
Where Metropolitan State University of Denver Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Metropolitan State University of Denver graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metropolitan State University of Denver | $52,216 | $57,726 | +11% |
| University of Pennsylvania | $82,553 | $117,639 | +43% |
| Georgetown University | $74,819 | $95,343 | +27% |
| University of Denver | $50,016 | $73,375 | +47% |
| Colorado State University Global | $55,814 | $56,771 | +2% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Colorado
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Colorado (6 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $10,780 | $52,216 | $57,726 | $24,000 | 0.46 | |
| $8,400 | $55,814 | $56,771 | $29,956 | 0.54 | |
| $59,340 | $50,016 | $73,375 | $22,739 | 0.45 | |
| 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 Metropolitan State University of Denver, approximately 35% 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 87 graduates with reported earnings and 77 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.