Analysis
Texas Tech's marketing program punches above its weight, delivering first-year earnings of $49,773 that surge to nearly $65,000 by year four—a 30% jump that outpaces typical marketing career trajectories. At the 60th percentile among Texas programs, it trails the elite privates like TCU and Baylor but beats most state competitors while costing significantly less. The $21,117 median debt is notably lower than both national and state averages, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.42—meaning graduates owe less than half their first-year salary.
The earnings trajectory here is the real story. That climb from roughly $50K to $65K suggests graduates are moving into management roles or finding their footing in higher-paying industries faster than peers elsewhere. Combined with the manageable debt load, you're looking at a program where students can actually build wealth in their twenties rather than treading water with loan payments.
For in-state students especially, this represents solid value—competitive outcomes without the private school premium. The 71% admission rate means it's accessible, and the numbers show that accessibility doesn't translate to compromised career prospects. If your child is staying in Texas and wants practical marketing training that leads somewhere, this program delivers measurable returns.
Where Texas Tech University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Texas Tech 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas Tech University | $49,773 | $64,758 | +30% |
| Southern Methodist University | $50,790 | $83,357 | +64% |
| Texas Christian University | $68,497 | $81,394 | +19% |
| The University of Texas at Austin | $59,428 | $74,178 | +25% |
| The University of Texas at Dallas | $51,384 | $64,110 | +25% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (57 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $11,852 | $49,773 | $64,758 | $21,117 | 0.42 | |
| $57,220 | $68,497 | $81,394 | $19,250 | 0.28 | |
| — | $63,570 | $53,053 | $45,070 | 0.71 | |
| $11,678 | $59,428 | $74,178 | $19,625 | 0.33 | |
| $54,844 | $57,162 | $59,964 | $21,775 | 0.38 | |
| $51,352 | $55,928 | $60,350 | $23,500 | 0.42 | |
| 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 Texas Tech University, approximately 26% 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 211 graduates with reported earnings and 222 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.