Analysis
University of Southern Maine's marketing program produces graduates who earn right at the Maine median ($46,198 initially), though that still places them above 57% of marketing programs nationwide. More importantly, these graduates carry about $4,300 less debt than the typical Maine marketing studentβa meaningful advantage when comparing in-state options.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49 means graduates owe roughly half their first year's salary, which is manageable territory for a business degree. Earnings growth to $51,073 by year four represents solid 11% gains, suggesting the degree opens doors to career progression rather than dead-end entry positions. While University of Maine marketing grads start about $4,500 higher, USM's lower debt burden narrows that gap considerably when you factor in monthly loan payments.
For Maine families weighing in-state options, this program delivers decent value: competitive starting salaries, below-average debt for the state, and steady earnings growth. It won't catapult your child to the top of the marketing world, but it provides solid preparation without the financial burden that often comes with private alternatives like Saint Joseph's College.
Where University of Southern Maine Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Southern Maine 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 Southern Maine | $46,198 | $51,073 | +11% |
| University of Pennsylvania | $82,553 | $117,639 | +43% |
| Georgetown University | $74,819 | $95,343 | +27% |
| Boston College | $66,227 | $89,379 | +35% |
| University of Maine | $50,655 | $53,721 | +6% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Maine
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Maine (5 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $10,920 | $46,198 | $51,073 | $22,616 | 0.49 | |
| $12,606 | $50,655 | $53,721 | $26,931 | 0.53 | |
| $42,834 | $44,151 | β | $27,000 | 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 Southern Maine, approximately 26% 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 42 graduates with reported earnings and 48 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.