Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release).
Analysis
University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown's marketing program shows graduates making solid progress in their early careers, with earnings jumping 43% from $46,239 to over $66,000 within four years. This trajectory matters more than the modest starting salary—especially given that graduates carry just $25,606 in debt, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.55.
The program sits right at Pennsylvania's median for marketing starting salaries but significantly outperforms in keeping debt low. While elite Pennsylvania programs like Penn and Villanova command much higher starting salaries, they also typically come with steeper price tags. UPitt-Johnstown delivers middle-of-the-pack results without saddling graduates with burdensome debt. The 96% admission rate means access isn't a barrier for most students who want this outcome.
The real appeal here is the growth pattern. By year four, graduates are earning nearly 50% more than the national median for marketing majors, suggesting the program provides skills or networks that translate into career advancement. For families prioritizing financial stability over prestige, this combination—reasonable debt, steady starting salary, strong earning growth—creates a viable path into marketing careers without the financial stress that often accompanies business degrees.
Where University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown 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 Pittsburgh-Johnstown | $46,239 | $66,288 | +43% |
| University of Pennsylvania | $82,553 | $117,639 | +43% |
| Lehigh University | $55,236 | $85,576 | +55% |
| Villanova University | $69,633 | $79,586 | +14% |
| Bucknell University | $70,868 | $71,936 | +2% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (55 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $14,646 | $46,239 | $66,288 | $25,606 | 0.55 | |
| $66,104 | $82,553 | $117,639 | $17,412 | 0.21 | |
| $64,772 | $70,868 | $71,936 | $26,000 | 0.37 | |
| $64,701 | $69,633 | $79,586 | $26,962 | 0.39 | |
| $60,663 | $57,838 | $68,543 | $27,000 | 0.47 | |
| $62,180 | $55,236 | $85,576 | $20,534 | 0.37 | |
| 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
Explore Related Programs
Marketing in Pennsylvania
- University of Pennsylvania$82,553
- Bucknell University$70,868
- Villanova University$69,633
- Drexel University$57,838
- Lehigh University$55,236
Explore further
- All Programs covering the principles and practices of managing organizations, finances, and markets. Includes accounting, finance, marketing, management, entrepreneurship, and specialized fields like supply chain and real estate. programs nationwide
- All programs at University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown
- College programs in Pennsylvania
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 Pittsburgh-Johnstown, approximately 29% 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 259 graduates with reported earnings and 280 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.