Median Earnings (1yr)
$54,390
92nd percentile
Median Debt
$25,000
3% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.46
Manageable
Sample Size
328
Adequate data

Analysis

University of Delaware's marketing program stands out as a national performer, placing in the 92nd percentile for graduate earnings compared to marketing programs across the country. Starting salaries of $54,390 substantially exceed both the national median ($44,728) and Delaware's state median ($47,092), though the program ranks in the middle of Delaware's limited marketing options at the 60th percentile.

The financial picture looks quite manageable with median debt of $25,000—close to national averages and reasonable given the strong earning potential. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46 means graduates can expect their first-year salary to cover debt payments comfortably, and the impressive 34% earnings growth to $72,845 by year four demonstrates solid career trajectory. With robust sample sizes backing these numbers, the data reflects real outcomes rather than statistical noise.

For parents weighing options, this program offers strong value despite Delaware's higher-than-average tuition costs. The combination of above-average starting salaries, manageable debt loads, and proven earnings growth creates a solid foundation for marketing careers. While it may not be the absolute top performer in Delaware, the national ranking suggests graduates are well-prepared to compete beyond state borders.

Where University of Delaware Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally

University of DelawareOther marketing programs

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 University of Delaware graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Delaware graduates earn $54k, placing them in the 92th 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 Delaware

Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Delaware (4 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Delaware$54,390$72,845$25,0000.46
Wilmington University$39,794$50,946$20,4300.51
National Median$44,728$24,2670.54

Other Marketing Programs in Delaware

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Delaware schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Wilmington University
New Castle
$12,330$39,794$20,430

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 Delaware, approximately 16% 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 328 graduates with reported earnings and 253 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.