Specialized Sales, Merchandising and Marketing Operations at University of Central Missouri

The relatively small sample size here (under 30 graduates) makes these numbers less reliable, but the available data reveals a program that performs better against Missouri competition than national standards. UCM's graduates earn exactly the state median for this field, placing them at the 60th percentile among Missouri schools—though with only five programs in the state, that comparison has limited meaning. Nationally, first-year earnings of $33,422 fall to the 38th percentile, about $2,400 below typical outcomes.

The debt load of $24,625 is actually lower than both state and national medians, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.74 that's manageable for a marketing-focused degree. The 20% earnings growth from year one to year four—reaching $40,015—suggests graduates find their footing as they gain experience, eventually approaching the 75th percentile nationally. Still, even at that four-year mark, these are modest earnings for a bachelor's degree.

For families choosing between Missouri programs, this appears competitive given the lower debt burden. But recognize you're looking at early-career earnings well below $35,000, which may require financial support in those first years out of college. The small sample size also means one cohort's experience might not predict the next. This works best for students who can graduate with minimal loans and have realistic expectations about starting salaries in merchandising and marketing operations roles.