Marketing at Texas State University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Texas State University's marketing program delivers solid returns that outperform both national and state averages, making it a reliable choice for families seeking value without breaking the bank. Graduates earn $48,072 in their first year—about $4,000 more than the typical marketing graduate nationally and $4,100 more than peers across Texas. While it doesn't crack the top tier of Texas programs (TCU and UT-Austin lead with significantly higher earnings), it ranks respectably in the 60th percentile statewide.
The financial picture looks particularly attractive with manageable debt of $21,500, which is lower than both national and state medians for marketing programs. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45 means graduates can reasonably expect to pay off their loans without major financial strain. Strong earnings growth of 24% from year one to year four suggests the degree opens doors to career advancement, with four-year earnings reaching nearly $60,000.
For parents weighing options, Texas State offers a sweet spot: better-than-average outcomes at a reasonable cost. The program won't deliver the prestige or immediate earning power of elite Texas universities, but it provides a solid foundation for marketing careers without the debt burden that often accompanies higher-ranked programs.
Where Texas State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
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 Texas State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Texas State University graduates earn $48k, placing them in the 66th 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 Texas
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (57 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas State University | $48,072 | $59,736 | $21,500 | 0.45 |
| Texas Christian University | $68,497 | $81,394 | $19,250 | 0.28 |
| University of Phoenix-Texas | $63,570 | $53,053 | $45,070 | 0.71 |
| The University of Texas at Austin | $59,428 | $74,178 | $19,625 | 0.33 |
| Baylor University | $57,162 | $59,964 | $21,775 | 0.38 |
| Trinity University | $55,928 | $60,350 | $23,500 | 0.42 |
| National Median | $44,728 | — | $24,267 | 0.54 |
Other Marketing Programs in Texas
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Texas schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas Christian University Fort Worth | $57,220 | $68,497 | $19,250 |
| University of Phoenix-Texas Dallas | — | $63,570 | $45,070 |
| The University of Texas at Austin Austin | $11,678 | $59,428 | $19,625 |
| Baylor University Waco | $54,844 | $57,162 | $21,775 |
| Trinity University San Antonio | $51,352 | $55,928 | $23,500 |
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 Texas State University, approximately 36% 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 415 graduates with reported earnings and 416 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.