Analysis
University of Cincinnati's marketing program delivers solid returns that outperform most national competitors, with graduates earning $50,636 in their first yearβwell above the national median of $44,728 and ranking in the 78th percentile nationally. The $23,000 debt load is reasonable, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45 that allows graduates to handle payments without financial strain.
Within Ohio's competitive landscape, UC's program holds steady in the middle tier, ranking in the 60th percentile among state programs. While it trails flagship programs like Ohio State ($56,465) and Miami University ($59,043), UC graduates still earn more than the Ohio median of $47,602. The 11% earnings growth over four years shows decent career progression, with salaries reaching $56,133 by year four.
For parents weighing options, UC's marketing program represents a balanced choiceβstrong national performance with moderate debt levels. The robust sample size of 100+ graduates gives confidence in these outcomes. While it may not be Ohio's premier marketing program, it delivers reliable results at a reasonable cost, making it a sensible investment for students who gain admission to this accessible program.
Where University of Cincinnati-Main Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Cincinnati-Main Campus 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Cincinnati-Main Campus | $50,636 | $56,133 | +11% |
| Miami University-Oxford | $59,043 | $75,634 | +28% |
| Ohio State University-Main Campus | $56,465 | $69,870 | +24% |
| University of Dayton | $54,504 | $69,513 | +28% |
| Bowling Green State University-Main Campus | $47,272 | $64,541 | +37% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (51 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $13,570 | $50,636 | $56,133 | $23,000 | 0.45 | |
| $17,809 | $59,043 | $75,634 | $21,963 | 0.37 | |
| $12,859 | $56,465 | $69,870 | $21,198 | 0.38 | |
| $6,178 | $55,022 | $64,113 | $25,000 | 0.45 | |
| $6,178 | $55,022 | $64,113 | $25,000 | 0.45 | |
| $6,178 | $55,022 | $64,113 | $25,000 | 0.45 | |
| 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 University of Cincinnati-Main Campus, approximately 18% 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 463 graduates with reported earnings and 470 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.