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 $25,000โclose 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
Earnings Distribution
How University of Delaware 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 Delaware | $54,390 | $72,845 | +34% |
| University of Pennsylvania | $82,553 | $117,639 | +43% |
| Georgetown University | $74,819 | $95,343 | +27% |
| Boston College | $66,227 | $89,379 | +35% |
| Wilmington University | $39,794 | $50,946 | +28% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Delaware
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Delaware (4 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $16,080 | $54,390 | $72,845 | $25,000 | 0.46 | |
| $12,330 | $39,794 | $50,946 | $20,430 | 0.51 | |
| National Median | โ | $44,728 | โ | $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 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.