Median Earnings (1yr)
$48,557
68th percentile (60th in MO)
Median Debt
$20,500
16% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.42
Manageable
Sample Size
67
Adequate data

Analysis

Northwest Missouri State delivers solid returns for marketing graduates while keeping debt substantially below typical levels. Starting at $48,557 and growing to $54,067 by year four, these graduates earn comfortably above both the national median ($44,728) and Missouri's state median ($42,900). While not reaching Washington University's elite outcomes, this program outperforms most Missouri competitors at a fraction of the cost burden.

The real advantage shows in the debt picture. At $20,500, graduates carry about $4,000 less than the Missouri average and nearly $4,000 less than the national benchmark. This translates to a 0.42 debt-to-earnings ratio—manageable monthly payments that won't derail other financial goals. The 11% earnings growth over four years suggests graduates build momentum in their careers rather than hitting an early ceiling.

For families prioritizing value over prestige, this represents a practical path into marketing. You're getting above-median career outcomes without the debt load that often accompanies business degrees. The moderate sample size means these figures are reasonably reliable, and the accessible admission profile (86% acceptance rate) makes this achievable for most students with solid academic records.

Where Northwest Missouri State University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally

Northwest Missouri State UniversityOther marketing programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Northwest Missouri State University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Northwest Missouri State University graduates earn $49k, placing them in the 68th percentile of all marketing bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Missouri

Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Missouri (21 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Northwest Missouri State University$48,557$54,067$20,5000.42
Washington University in St Louis$70,819$17,5000.25
Missouri State University-Springfield$43,641$53,891$25,9770.60
University of Central Missouri$43,320$59,317$21,5000.50
Missouri Western State University$43,070$25,9500.60
Saint Louis University$42,729$24,8770.58
National Median$44,728$24,2670.54

Other Marketing Programs in Missouri

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Missouri schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Washington University in St Louis
St. Louis
$62,982$70,819$17,500
Missouri State University-Springfield
Springfield
$9,024$43,641$25,977
University of Central Missouri
Warrensburg
$9,739$43,320$21,500
Missouri Western State University
Saint Joseph
$9,800$43,070$25,950
Saint Louis University
Saint Louis
$53,244$42,729$24,877

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 Northwest Missouri State University, approximately 27% 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 67 graduates with reported earnings and 67 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.