Analysis
Providence College's marketing graduates earn $58,434 in their first year—outpacing the national median by 31% and ranking in the 95th percentile nationally. Among Rhode Island's eight marketing programs, this puts Providence ahead of Bryant University (traditionally the state's business powerhouse at $50,727) and significantly above the state median of $43,275. The earnings trajectory is equally impressive, climbing to $76,266 by year four, a 31% increase that suggests strong career momentum rather than a static salary picture.
The $27,000 median debt sits right at the national median and is entirely manageable given first-year earnings—the 0.46 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates carry debt equal to just under half their starting salary. For a selectivity level of 49% and average SAT of 1342, these outcomes represent exceptional value. The robust sample size (100+ graduates) makes these figures reliable, not flukes.
For families weighing Providence College's price tag, the data is clear: this program delivers top-tier marketing outcomes both regionally and nationally. Graduates aren't just finding jobs—they're accessing higher-paying positions and building careers with genuine upward trajectory, all while maintaining entirely reasonable debt loads.
Where Providence College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Providence College 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providence College | $58,434 | $76,266 | +31% |
| Bryant University | $50,727 | $70,098 | +38% |
| Roger Williams University | $44,506 | $69,280 | +56% |
| University of Rhode Island | $46,394 | $66,017 | +42% |
| Salve Regina University | $42,044 | $53,783 | +28% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Rhode Island
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Rhode Island (8 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $60,848 | $58,434 | $76,266 | $27,000 | 0.46 | |
| $51,169 | $50,727 | $70,098 | $27,000 | 0.53 | |
| $16,408 | $46,394 | $66,017 | $22,089 | 0.48 | |
| $42,666 | $44,506 | $69,280 | $26,698 | 0.60 | |
| $47,930 | $42,044 | $53,783 | $27,000 | 0.64 | |
| $40,408 | $41,544 | $49,290 | $26,675 | 0.64 | |
| 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 Providence College, approximately 13% 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 137 graduates with reported earnings and 127 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.