Analysis
Robert Morris University's Marketing program sits squarely in the middle of the packβboth nationally and within Pennsylvania. With first-year earnings of $43,274, graduates earn slightly less than the state median ($46,239) and land right around the 40th percentile among PA marketing programs. The $27,000 debt load is reasonable, yielding a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.62 that won't strain most budgets.
The story here is one of reliable mediocrity. Earnings grow a respectable 13% over four years to just under $50,000, which tracks with typical marketing career progression. However, there's a significant earnings gap between this program and Pennsylvania's elite optionsβPenn and Villanova graduates earn 60-70% more right out of the gate. Even mid-tier programs like Drexel deliver $14,500 more in year-one earnings. The 91% admission rate suggests this is an accessible option, but accessibility comes with a tradeoff in earning potential.
For families weighing cost versus opportunity, this program makes sense primarily if Robert Morris offers substantial financial aid or if your student has strong geographical ties to the Pittsburgh area. The debt is manageable and the earnings trajectory is steady, but the below-average starting salary means graduates will need to hustle early in their careers. If your child can gain admission to more selective Pennsylvania marketing programs, the earnings premium likely justifies the extra effort.
Where Robert Morris University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Robert Morris 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Robert Morris University | $43,274 | $49,071 | +13% |
| University of Pennsylvania | $82,553 | $117,639 | +43% |
| Lehigh University | $55,236 | $85,576 | +55% |
| Villanova University | $69,633 | $79,586 | +14% |
| Bucknell University | $70,868 | $71,936 | +2% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (55 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $34,940 | $43,274 | $49,071 | $27,000 | 0.62 | |
| $66,104 | $82,553 | $117,639 | $17,412 | 0.21 | |
| $64,772 | $70,868 | $71,936 | $26,000 | 0.37 | |
| $64,701 | $69,633 | $79,586 | $26,962 | 0.39 | |
| $60,663 | $57,838 | $68,543 | $27,000 | 0.47 | |
| $62,180 | $55,236 | $85,576 | $20,534 | 0.37 | |
| 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 Robert Morris University, approximately 22% 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 73 graduates with reported earnings and 78 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.