Marketing at University of South Dakota

University of South Dakota's marketing program starts graduates at $48,060—above both the national median ($44,728) and South Dakota's state median ($46,976). With debt of $26,000, graduates owe roughly six months' salary, a manageable load that ranks better than 69% of marketing programs nationally. Among South Dakota's six marketing programs, this performs solidly at the 60th percentile for earnings, essentially middle-of-the-pack in a small state market.

The concerning pattern here is what happens after that first year. Earnings actually decline to $46,630 by year four, suggesting either industry dynamics or career path challenges that prevent typical salary growth. This backward trajectory is unusual for a bachelor's degree and means graduates might not see the income progression they expect early in their careers. Given the school's 99% admission rate and below-average test scores, the program's initial placement is actually impressive, but the lack of growth raises questions about long-term advancement opportunities.

For families, this represents a financially sound starting point—the debt burden is modest and the first job should cover it comfortably. However, parents should understand their child may need to actively manage their career trajectory, potentially changing employers or specializing, to avoid the earnings stagnation this data suggests. The program won't saddle graduates with crushing debt, but it may not launch them into a steadily climbing career either.