Marketing at San Diego State University

San Diego State's marketing program stands out for its exceptional debt management rather than sky-high earnings. With just $15,000 in median student debt—far below both the national average of $24,267 and California's $21,000 median—graduates enter the workforce with unusually light financial burdens. This debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.31 is among the best nationally, meaning graduates owe less than four months of their starting salary.

The earnings trajectory tells an encouraging story of steady career progression. Starting salaries of $48,229 match California's median for marketing programs and rank in the 67th percentile nationally, then grow substantially to $67,600 by year four—a 40% increase that suggests the program prepares students for advancement. While the program doesn't crack the top tier occupied by private schools like Santa Clara or University of San Diego, it delivers solid middle-pack performance within California's competitive landscape.

For families weighing cost against opportunity, SDSU's marketing program offers a compelling value equation: competitive earnings potential without the debt burden that often accompanies marketing degrees elsewhere. The combination of reasonable starting salaries, strong growth prospects, and minimal debt creates favorable conditions for financial stability after graduation.