Analysis
With estimated first-year earnings around $47,600 and typical debt of $27,000, a marketing degree from Rio Grande appears to track closely with state averages—but that's where the uncertainty begins. These figures come from peer programs across Ohio rather than actual outcomes for Rio Grande's graduates, making it difficult to assess this program's specific track record.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.57 suggests manageable repayment under normal circumstances, though it's worth noting that Ohio's flagship universities report marketing graduates earning $56,000 to $59,000 annually—roughly $10,000 more than the state median Rio Grande likely mirrors. That gap compounds over time. For a family already stretching financially (36% of students here receive Pell grants), the question becomes whether this program delivers competitive career preparation or merely acceptable outcomes.
The fundamental challenge is that without actual data from Rio Grande, you're betting on an assumption: that their marketing program performs like the typical Ohio bachelor's program in this field. If it outperforms that median, the investment looks reasonable. If it underperforms—and small programs can vary widely—you might face higher debt or weaker employment outcomes than these estimates suggest. Before committing, investigate Rio Grande's employer connections and internship placements in marketing specifically, since those tangible details matter more than statewide averages when the program's own numbers remain hidden.
Where University of Rio Grande Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (51 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $20,560 | $47,602* | — | $27,000* | — | |
| $17,809 | $59,043* | $75,634 | $21,963* | 0.37 | |
| $12,859 | $56,465* | $69,870 | $21,198* | 0.38 | |
| $6,178 | $55,022* | $64,113 | $25,000* | 0.45 | |
| $6,178 | $55,022* | $64,113 | $25,000* | 0.45 | |
| $6,178 | $55,022* | $64,113 | $25,000* | 0.45 | |
| 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 Rio Grande, approximately 36% 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 36 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.