Analysis
A Marketing bachelor's degree from the University of Guam carries an estimated debt burden of $22,587—slightly below the national median for this field—for a credential that peer programs suggest produces first-year earnings around $44,728. The 0.50 debt-to-earnings ratio falls within reasonable bounds, meaning graduates from comparable programs typically earn enough in their first year to justify their educational investment, though Guam's isolated geography and small market size create unique considerations that national comparisons can't fully capture.
The challenge here isn't the numbers themselves but the context. As the only institution offering a Marketing degree in Guam, this program serves students who either need to stay in-territory or want to build careers in the island's tourism-dependent economy. Similar programs nationally produce earnings that should make the debt manageable—graduates typically owe about half what they earn in year one—but local job market realities matter more than national medians when you're 3,800 miles from the mainland.
For families weighing this decision: the estimated debt load seems reasonable relative to what comparable programs deliver elsewhere, but understand that Guam's limited corporate presence and small business landscape may constrain marketing career paths differently than mainland markets. If your student plans to eventually relocate for broader opportunities, this could work well. If they're committed to building a career locally, connecting with Guam's business community early becomes essential for translating this degree into employment that matches these estimated earnings.
Where University of Guam Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Marketing bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $6,110 | $44,728* | — | $22,587* | — | |
| $66,104 | $82,553* | $117,639 | $17,412* | 0.21 | |
| $65,081 | $74,819* | $95,343 | $17,000* | 0.23 | |
| $64,772 | $70,868* | $71,936 | $26,000* | 0.37 | |
| $62,982 | $70,819* | — | $17,500* | 0.25 | |
| $64,701 | $69,633* | $79,586 | $26,962* | 0.39 | |
| National Median | — | $44,728* | — | $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 Guam, approximately 31% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 502 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.