Marketing at University of Pennsylvania
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Penn's marketing graduates earn nearly double what typical marketing majors make—$82,553 in the first year versus the national median of $44,728. Among Pennsylvania's 55 marketing programs, this ranks at the very top of the 95th percentile, significantly outpacing even elite competitors like Bucknell ($70,868) and Villanova ($69,633). The debt load of $17,412 is roughly one-third of what most marketing students carry, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.21—meaning graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in under three months.
The trajectory looks equally strong. Four years out, median earnings jump to $117,639, representing 43% growth and reinforcing that Wharton credentials open doors well beyond typical marketing roles. This isn't simply about getting a good first job; it's about accessing career paths—consulting, investment banking, tech—that treat marketing as a strategic discipline rather than a communications function.
The obvious caveat is Penn's 6% admission rate. If your child can get in, the return on investment is exceptional. The marketing program delivers Ivy League earning power without Ivy League debt levels, making it one of the clearest financial wins among business majors at elite schools.
Where University of Pennsylvania Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How University of Pennsylvania graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of Pennsylvania graduates earn $83k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all marketing bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (55 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Pennsylvania | $82,553 | $117,639 | $17,412 | 0.21 |
| Bucknell University | $70,868 | $71,936 | $26,000 | 0.37 |
| Villanova University | $69,633 | $79,586 | $26,962 | 0.39 |
| Drexel University | $57,838 | $68,543 | $27,000 | 0.47 |
| Lehigh University | $55,236 | $85,576 | $20,534 | 0.37 |
| Susquehanna University | $52,085 | $68,356 | $27,000 | 0.52 |
| National Median | $44,728 | — | $24,267 | 0.54 |
Other Marketing Programs in Pennsylvania
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Pennsylvania schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bucknell University Lewisburg | $64,772 | $70,868 | $26,000 |
| Villanova University Villanova | $64,701 | $69,633 | $26,962 |
| Drexel University Philadelphia | $60,663 | $57,838 | $27,000 |
| Lehigh University Bethlehem | $62,180 | $55,236 | $20,534 |
| Susquehanna University Selinsgrove | $57,400 | $52,085 | $27,000 |
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 Pennsylvania, 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 43 graduates with reported earnings and 36 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.