Analysis
Tulane's marketing program dramatically outperforms Louisiana competition, with first-year graduates earning $61,413βmore than $20,000 above every other program in the state, including LSU. This 95th percentile placement both nationally and statewide reflects the university's elite reputation and New Orleans business connections, though the $19,500 debt load sits higher than the Louisiana median.
The debt burden deserves attention but remains manageable at 32% of first-year earnings, well below the concerning 1:1 threshold. More importantly, graduates see steady income growth, reaching nearly $70,000 by year four. For a selective private university (15% admission rate), this debt level is relatively restrainedβmany comparable institutions leave students with far heavier loads.
The value equation here is clear: you're paying a premium for a Tulane degree, but the earnings justify it. While Louisiana families might balk at private school tuition versus in-state LSU options, the $20,000+ annual earnings advantage quickly closes any gap. This program delivers both immediate earning power and a strong trajectory, making it one of the state's best marketing degrees by a significant margin.
Where Tulane University of Louisiana Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Tulane University of Louisiana 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tulane University of Louisiana | $61,413 | $69,685 | +13% |
| Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College | $40,219 | $57,006 | +42% |
| Nicholls State University | $33,229 | $49,497 | +49% |
| Southeastern Louisiana University | $40,650 | $46,308 | +14% |
| University of New Orleans | $32,624 | $42,922 | +32% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Louisiana
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Louisiana (15 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $65,538 | $61,413 | $69,685 | $19,500 | 0.32 | |
| $9,190 | $43,652 | β | $20,500 | 0.47 | |
| $9,940 | $40,750 | $32,124 | $29,750 | 0.73 | |
| β | $40,750 | β | β | β | |
| $8,373 | $40,650 | $46,308 | $21,500 | 0.53 | |
| $11,954 | $40,219 | $57,006 | $21,500 | 0.53 | |
| 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 Tulane University of Louisiana, approximately 9% 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 76 graduates with reported earnings and 74 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.