Analysis
Minot State's marketing program launches graduates into surprisingly strong starting salariesβ$52,036 puts them ahead of 83% of marketing programs nationwide and well above the $44,728 national median. With just $21,129 in typical debt, the 0.41 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe less than five months of their first-year salary, a manageable burden that compares favorably to the national median debt of $24,267. However, the 60th percentile ranking among North Dakota's six marketing programs tells a more nuanced story: while Minot State delivers solid value, UND and NDSU graduates edge ahead slightly in the state job market.
The earnings decline to $46,635 by year four deserves attention but isn't necessarily alarmingβit could reflect graduates changing career paths or the natural fluctuations in North Dakota's economy. What matters more is that even at year four, these graduates still earn above the national marketing median and maintain very manageable debt levels.
For North Dakota families seeking an affordable marketing degree that provides genuine competitive advantage nationally, Minot State delivers. The combination of low debt and strong early earnings creates real financial flexibility for graduates, even if they're not quite at the top of the state's programs. This is particularly valuable for students who might not gain admission to the state's flagship universities or who prefer Minot's smaller campus environment.
Where Minot State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Minot State University 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minot State University | $52,036 | $46,635 | -10% |
| University of Pennsylvania | $82,553 | $117,639 | +43% |
| University of North Dakota | $48,843 | $64,234 | +32% |
| Rasmussen University-North Dakota | $41,377 | $58,760 | +42% |
| North Dakota State University-Main Campus | $47,815 | $58,602 | +23% |
Compare to Similar Programs in North Dakota
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in North Dakota (6 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,634 | $52,036 | $46,635 | $21,129 | 0.41 | |
| $10,951 | $48,843 | $64,234 | $24,187 | 0.50 | |
| $10,857 | $47,815 | $58,602 | $25,000 | 0.52 | |
| $12,715 | $41,377 | $58,760 | $37,530 | 0.91 | |
| 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 Minot State University, approximately 24% 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 30 graduates with reported earnings and 31 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.