Analysis
In Louisiana's marketing job market, bachelor's graduates from similar programs typically earn around $38,000 in their first year—well below the $45,000 national median for marketing degrees. University of Holy Cross's program appears to track with this state pattern, based on peer institutions across Louisiana, though without school-specific data we're working from broader averages. That $7,000 gap against the national benchmark adds up to $35,000+ over five years, making location a significant factor in the return on this degree.
The estimated $26,000 debt load falls within typical ranges for marketing programs, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.69 that's manageable but not comfortable. Louisiana's other marketing programs show a wide spread—from Tulane's $61,000 outcomes down to mid-$30,000 figures elsewhere—suggesting that institutional reputation and network effects matter considerably in this field. Holy Cross's 99% admission rate positions it at the accessible end of this spectrum, where outcomes tend to lag behind more selective competitors.
For families considering this program, the combination of estimated below-national earnings and moderate debt means your graduate would likely need to be strategic about their first job. New Orleans offers marketing opportunities in tourism and hospitality, but starting salaries there may not stretch as far as similar figures would elsewhere. If staying in Louisiana is the plan, this program appears aligned with state norms—just know those norms trail the national market by a meaningful margin.
Where University of Holy Cross Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Louisiana
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Louisiana (15 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $16,160 | $37,667* | — | $26,000* | — | |
| $65,538 | $61,413* | $69,685 | $19,500* | 0.32 | |
| $9,190 | $43,652* | — | $20,500* | 0.47 | |
| $9,940 | $40,750* | $32,124 | $29,750* | 0.73 | |
| — | $40,750* | — | —* | — | |
| $8,373 | $40,650* | $46,308 | $21,500* | 0.53 | |
| 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 Holy Cross, approximately 28% 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 median of 12 similar programs in LA. Actual outcomes may vary.