Analysis
University of Idaho's marketing program graduates earn slightly above both national and state medians, but the real story is the trajectory. Starting at $45,555, earnings climb 15% to over $52,000 within four years—meaningful growth that suggests graduates are advancing rather than stagnating. Among Idaho's six marketing programs, this ranks 60th percentile, sitting comfortably between Boise State and the stronger BYU-Idaho program.
The debt picture looks reasonable at first glance—$24,926 creates a 0.55 ratio to first-year earnings, which is manageable. However, this is slightly above Idaho's typical marketing debt of $23,463, and with University of Idaho's 79% admission rate, families should weigh whether the premium over more affordable options like Idaho State (where grads earn $39,605) justifies the extra borrowing.
For an Idaho family considering in-state tuition, this program delivers solidly middle-of-the-pack outcomes without excessive risk. The earnings growth suggests employers value the experience these graduates gain, and the debt level won't create undue hardship. It's neither the standout choice nor a red flag—just a dependable path for a student committed to marketing who wants to stay in the state system.
Where University of Idaho Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Idaho 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 Idaho | $45,555 | $52,158 | +14% |
| University of Pennsylvania | $82,553 | $117,639 | +43% |
| Georgetown University | $74,819 | $95,343 | +27% |
| Idaho State University | $39,605 | $58,182 | +47% |
| Boise State University | $45,024 | $49,168 | +9% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Idaho
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Idaho (6 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,816 | $45,555 | $52,158 | $24,926 | 0.55 | |
| $4,656 | $49,026 | — | $10,630 | 0.22 | |
| $8,782 | $45,024 | $49,168 | $22,000 | 0.49 | |
| $8,356 | $39,605 | $58,182 | $25,123 | 0.63 | |
| 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 Idaho, approximately 23% 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 94 graduates with reported earnings and 88 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.