Rankings / Social Mobility

Best Social Mobility Colleges for Marketing

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$79,749

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

80%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$20,261

Avg. Net Price

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When considering colleges for marketing, students and families are often focused on social mobility—the ability to improve one's economic status after graduation. This list highlights institutions that excel in this area while offering strong marketing programs. A notable figure to consider is the average earnings for graduates in marketing, which stand at $83,730 across these top schools.

The schools on this list are distinguished by key outcomes such as earnings potential, graduation rates, debt levels, and overall mobility. Those metrics matter because they provide insight into how well these institutions prepare students for successful careers in marketing. As you explore the rankings below, keep an eye on the earnings and debt numbers, as they tell a compelling story about each school's value.

For instance, CUNY Bernard M Baruch College has a lower net price of $3,033 compared to University of Pennsylvania's $28,699, but the average earnings for Baruch graduates are significantly lower at $75,971 compared to UPenn's impressive $111,371. This contrast illustrates the tradeoff between cost and potential return on investment, prompting deeper consideration of what each family values most in a college experience.

Key Findings

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College graduates earn an average of $75,971.

University of Pennsylvania boasts a 97% graduation rate, the highest on this list.

The average net price across these schools is $23,119.

Washington and Lee University graduates have a debt of $19,500 on average.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $79,749

Avg. graduation rate 80%

Avg. net price $20,261

Avg. median debt $17,540

How We Ranked

Ranked by social mobility with program concentration in Business & Marketing

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY

Graduation72%

Earnings$75,971

Net Price$3,033

View full profile →

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY

Graduation95%

Earnings$104,043

Net Price$28,690

View full profile →

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY

Graduation55%

Earnings$60,752

Net Price$3,103

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College serves over 16,000 students in the heart of New York City, providing a vibrant urban campus atmosphere. With a 72% graduation rate, the college prepares students for successful careers, reflected in median earnings of $75,971 ten years after graduation.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University, located in the picturesque town of Ithaca, boasts a diverse student body of nearly 16,000. With a 95% graduation rate, the university is dedicated to cultivating leaders and innovators, as shown by the impressive median earnings of $104,043 for graduates a decade after they leave.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

CUNY Brooklyn College is a vibrant hub for a diverse student population, with 57% of students receiving Pell Grants. The college's lower acceptance rate of 58% indicates a competitive environment where students are dedicated to their education and community, fostering a supportive campus culture focused on growth.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

At the University of Pennsylvania, students join a prestigious community with a striking 97% graduation rate. This private nonprofit institution in Philadelphia not only emphasizes academic excellence but also produces graduates who earn a median of $111,371 ten years post-graduation, a testament to the university's strong career preparation.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Washington and Lee University, with a close-knit community of around 1,900 students, emphasizes both academic excellence and character development. A 94% graduation rate showcases the institution's commitment to student success, and graduates can expect median earnings of $94,810 within ten years, indicating strong career prospects after leaving the university.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

Babson College

Wellesley, MA · 2,728 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Babson College in Wellesley, MA, is focused on fostering entrepreneurial spirit among its students. The average earnings of graduates ten years post-enrollment reach an impressive $123,938, indicating that the school prepares its students well for the job market, especially in business-related fields.

17% accepted 93% graduate $123,938 earnings

Babson's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 95%, Rice University in Houston is not just about numbers; it’s about a supportive environment that helps students thrive. The median earnings of $89,718 a decade after graduation reflect the strong outcomes for graduates in various fields, showcasing the university's focus on academic excellence and career readiness.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

Emory University in Atlanta, GA, is known for its strong commitment to research and community engagement. With a graduation rate of 91%, students here benefit from a supportive learning environment that encourages intellectual growth and innovation. Graduates earn a median salary of $80,137 ten years after graduation, illustrating the strong career trajectories of Emory alumni.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

Georgia Institute of Technology, nestled in Atlanta, is renowned for its strong engineering and technology programs, attracting a diverse student body of nearly 19,000. With a graduation rate of 93%, students here benefit from a rich educational experience that combines classroom learning with hands-on opportunities in one of the nation's most vibrant tech hubs.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#10

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

The University of Florida in Gainesville is a large, public institution known for its vibrant campus life and array of academic programs, serving over 35,000 students. With a graduation rate of 91%, students benefit from a supportive environment and diverse resources that encourage academic achievement and personal growth.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#11

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a public university known for its strong sense of community and academic excellence. With a graduation rate of 92%, students here can expect a solid education that pays off — graduates earn a median of $72,200 within ten years of finishing their degrees, which reflects the value of a UNC education in the job market.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#12

Washington University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO · 7,857 students · Private nonprofit

Washington University in St. Louis is known for its commitment to academic excellence, reflected in an impressive graduation rate of 94%. This private nonprofit institution nurtures a collaborative and ambitious student body, encouraging learners to excel in their fields while also engaging in meaningful community work.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#13

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN · 8,818 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Notre Dame is a hub of academic rigor and community, reflected in its impressive 96% graduation rate. Located in Indiana, this private nonprofit university fosters a strong sense of belonging among its nearly 9,000 students, which is supported by a robust alumni network that actively engages with current students for mentorship and job opportunities.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#14

Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA · 10,085 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Chestnut Hill, MA, Boston College is a vibrant community with a graduation rate of 91%. The school cultivates a strong liberal arts education that leads to impressive outcomes; graduates report median earnings of $103,937 within ten years of graduation, signaling the high demand for BC alumni in the workforce.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

#15

University of Georgia

Athens, GA · 32,137 students · Public

The University of Georgia is located in Athens, a vibrant college town known for its rich history and lively arts scene. With an 89% graduation rate, it attracts a diverse student body, including many who thrive in community-focused environments that promote both academic and social growth.

38% accepted 89% graduate $68,726 earnings

University's full profile

#16

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown University is a prestigious institution that emphasizes both academic rigor and social responsibility, with a graduation rate of 95%. Located in the heart of Washington, DC, it offers students unique opportunities to engage with policymakers and leaders, enriching their educational experience beyond the classroom.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#17

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

CUNY Queens College attracts students with its affordable education and diverse community. Nearly half of its students receive Pell Grants, indicating a commitment to accessibility for those from lower-income backgrounds. With a student body of over 12,500, you'll find a rich cultural tapestry and a supportive environment that encourages academic growth.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA · 27,601 students · Public

San Jose State University, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, serves over 27,600 students and boasts a graduation rate of 67%. This university is an ideal choice for those interested in technology and entrepreneurship, as its proximity to major companies fosters unique internship and job opportunities for students eager to enter the workforce.

85% accepted 67% graduate $78,988 earnings

Bentley University

Waltham, MA · 4,474 students · Private nonprofit

Bentley University in Waltham is known for its strong emphasis on business education, reflected in a robust median earning of $120,959 for graduates ten years after earning their degrees. With an 88% graduation rate, students are well-prepared to enter competitive fields with a solid educational foundation and networking opportunities.

45% accepted 88% graduate $120,959 earnings

Bentley's full profile

#20

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University is known for its strong emphasis on technology and the arts, making it ideal for innovative thinkers. With a graduation rate of 93%, the school fosters an environment of collaboration and creativity among its students.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#21

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

Brigham Young University offers a unique environment that combines rigorous academics with a strong sense of community and values. With a graduation rate of 82%, students can find a supportive atmosphere that encourages personal and intellectual growth. The university's commitment to helping students succeed is reflected in its high median earnings of $75,790 ten years post-graduation, providing a meaningful return on investment.

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#22

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA · 20,443 students · Private nonprofit

With a striking 92% graduation rate and a robust median earnings figure of $92,498 at the ten-year mark, the University of Southern California is a strong contender for students aiming for success after college. Located in lively Los Angeles, this private nonprofit school fosters a vibrant community where students from diverse backgrounds come together to thrive both academically and socially.

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

#23

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

CUNY Hunter College, nestled in the heart of New York City, offers an engaging academic experience to its 16,289 students. With a graduation rate of 59%, this college is particularly appealing for those who want to immerse themselves in city life while pursuing their education, providing unique opportunities for internships and networking.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

Fashion Institute of Technology

New York, NY · 7,637 students · Public

60% accepted 82% graduate $62,696 earnings

Fashion's full profile

#25

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY · 10,696 students · Public

CUNY Lehman College in the Bronx is an accessible option for many students, with a 57% acceptance rate and a focus on serving a diverse population. Although the graduation rate is 50%, the college emphasizes support for its students, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a welcoming community.

57% accepted 50% graduate $58,013 earnings

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA · 5,898 students · Private nonprofit

Lehigh University is noted for its strong engineering and business programs, attracting students who are ready to tackle challenging academic paths. The school has an impressive 89% graduation rate and a median earning of $105,584 at the ten-year mark, indicating a solid return on investment for its graduates. Located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Lehigh fosters a spirited campus life that encourages both academic and personal growth.

26% accepted 89% graduate $105,584 earnings

Lehigh's full profile

#27

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

Florida International University is a vibrant hub for over 39,000 students, set in the culturally rich environment of Miami. With a diverse student body and a graduation rate of 74%, it offers a supportive atmosphere for students looking to explore their passions while preparing for their future careers.

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

#28

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Northwestern University’s commitment to interdisciplinary learning makes it an excellent choice for students interested in blending different fields. With a graduation rate of 96%, students benefit from a supportive community and extensive resources to help them achieve their goals.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#29

Saint Johns University

Collegeville, MN · 1,395 students · Private nonprofit

91% accepted 76% graduate $76,786 earnings

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

William & Mary, with its rich history and academic prestige, attracts students who are passionate about learning and leadership. The university boasts a 90% graduation rate, and graduates can expect to earn a median income of $73,490 within ten years. This combination of high achievement and strong earnings reflects the university's commitment to fostering students' success in a variety of fields.

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

#31

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, VA · 30,923 students · Public

55% accepted 86% graduate $81,698 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#32

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · 17,326 students · Private nonprofit

Northeastern University is known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning, with many students participating in co-op programs that integrate academic study with real-world work experience. A 90% graduation rate reflects the university's commitment to support students on their educational journey, preparing them for competitive job markets.

5% accepted 90% graduate $92,538 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

#33

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA · 27,752 students · Public

87% accepted 69% graduate $76,343 earnings

George's full profile

#34

Boston University

Boston, MA · 18,248 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 89% graduate $83,238 earnings

Boston's full profile

#35

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Edwardsville, IL · 8,750 students · Public

98% accepted 56% graduate $56,346 earnings

Southern's full profile

#36

University of Virginia's College at Wise

Wise, VA · 1,101 students · Public

29% accepted 48% graduate $45,325 earnings

University's full profile

#37

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL · 32,212 students · Public

Florida State University, located in the heart of Tallahassee, welcomes over 32,000 students with a strong graduation rate of 84%. With a focus on a well-rounded education, graduates earn a median of $61,675 ten years after leaving campus, reflecting a solid return on investment for students who engage with the university's diverse academic offerings.

24% accepted 84% graduate $61,675 earnings

Florida's full profile

#38

Wake Forest University

Winston-Salem, NC · 5,485 students · Private nonprofit

Wake Forest University offers a close-knit community with a strong emphasis on both academic rigor and personal growth. With a graduation rate of 90% and median earnings of $78,158 ten years after graduation, students leave well-prepared for their careers, often standing out in their fields due to the university's focus on developing critical thinking and communication skills.

22% accepted 90% graduate $78,158 earnings

University of Richmond

University of Richmond, VA · 2,980 students · Private nonprofit

22% accepted 86% graduate $76,178 earnings

University's full profile

#40

State University of New York at Plattsburgh

Plattsburgh, NY · 3,769 students · Public

78% accepted 59% graduate $56,403 earnings

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS · 9,733 students · Public

90% accepted 48% graduate $48,928 earnings

Ramapo College of New Jersey

Mahwah, NJ · 4,898 students · Public

71% accepted 71% graduate $67,541 earnings

Ramapo's full profile

#43

San Diego State University

San Diego, CA · 35,377 students · Public

36% accepted 77% graduate $64,909 earnings

Santa Clara University

Santa Clara, CA · 6,552 students · Private nonprofit

48% accepted 88% graduate $109,183 earnings

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

Claremont McKenna College, with its intimate setting of just 1,388 students, cultivates a close-knit community that emphasizes leadership and economic thinking. The impressive graduation rate of 93% and median earnings of $104,736 at ten years highlight how the college prepares its graduates for high-impact careers. It’s a place where small class sizes foster meaningful interactions with professors and peers alike.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

#46

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL · 37,207 students · Public

43% accepted 76% graduate $57,743 earnings

University's full profile

#47

Trinity University

San Antonio, TX · 2,505 students · Private nonprofit

26% accepted 83% graduate $71,668 earnings

Trinity's full profile

#48

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, FL · 23,757 students · Public

66% accepted 63% graduate $56,746 earnings

Florida's full profile

#49

CUNY York College

Jamaica, NY · 4,345 students · Public

64% accepted 31% graduate $56,945 earnings

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL · 13,359 students · Public

53% accepted 69% graduate $56,343 earnings

University's full profile

Interestingly, the data shows that while CUNY Bernard M Baruch College has the lowest average earnings at $75,971, its net price is also the lowest at $3,033. In contrast, graduates from the University of Pennsylvania earn an average of $111,371, but they face a much steeper net price of $28,699. This pattern raises questions about the balance between cost and financial return, highlighting the need for students to consider what investment aligns with their career aspirations.

As you think about these rankings, weigh them against your own priorities. Location, program fit, campus culture, and financial situation all play crucial roles in the decision-making process. For example, if affordability is a top concern, schools like CUNY Bernard M Baruch could be more appealing despite lower earnings. On the other hand, if maximizing earning potential is the goal, institutions like the University of Pennsylvania might warrant the higher investment.

Ultimately, this data reflects the broader implications of a college education on economic mobility. Choosing the right college is a pivotal decision that affects not just individual students but families as well. The path from education to stable employment can significantly shape a family's future, making it essential to analyze these outcomes thoughtfully.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

Chetty, R., Jackson, M., Kuchler, T., et al. (2022). Social Capital I: Measurement and Associations with Economic Mobility. Nature, 608, 108-121. →

[3]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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