Analysis
University of Kentucky's marketing program outperforms both national and state benchmarks, with first-year graduates earning $48,100βabout $3,000 more than the typical Kentucky marketing graduate and $3,400 above the national median. Among Kentucky's 12 marketing programs, UK ranks second behind only University of Louisville, delivering solid value at the state's flagship institution.
The debt picture looks reasonable at $24,225, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.50. This means graduates typically owe about half their first-year salary, which falls right at national norms for marketing programs. What's particularly encouraging is the 21% earnings growth over four years, bringing median pay to $58,361βsuggesting strong career trajectory for graduates.
For parents weighing options, UK's marketing program represents a straightforward value proposition: above-average earnings potential with typical debt levels at an accessible state university (92% admission rate). The robust sample size of 100+ graduates gives confidence in these numbers, and the program's performance in the 66th percentile nationally suggests consistent quality. While not exceptional, it's a solid choice that should provide good return on investment for most students.
Where University of Kentucky Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Kentucky 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 Kentucky | $48,100 | $58,361 | +21% |
| University of Louisville | $47,704 | $60,649 | +27% |
| Morehead State University | $38,636 | $57,830 | +50% |
| Northern Kentucky University | $45,386 | $55,123 | +21% |
| Western Kentucky University | $42,478 | $53,494 | +26% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Kentucky
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kentucky (12 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $13,212 | $48,100 | $58,361 | $24,225 | 0.50 | |
| $12,828 | $47,704 | $60,649 | $21,384 | 0.45 | |
| $10,896 | $45,386 | $55,123 | $22,387 | 0.49 | |
| $9,708 | $45,042 | $42,692 | $21,997 | 0.49 | |
| $11,436 | $42,478 | $53,494 | $23,250 | 0.55 | |
| $10,130 | $40,968 | $50,327 | $25,189 | 0.61 | |
| National Median | β | $44,728 | β | $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 Kentucky, approximately 22% 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 319 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.