Advertising Major — Salary & ROI 2026
Creation and management of marketing campaigns to promote products and services.
Starting Salary
$45K
median
Mid-Career
$75K
salary
ROI Payback
5 yrs
avg payback
Unemployment
3.5%
rate
Advertising Overview
Creation and management of marketing campaigns to promote products and services.
Category
Communications
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Graduation Rate
68%
Enrollment Trend
stable
Online Available
Yes
Underemployment
20%
Lifetime Premium
$450K
Female Graduates
62%
Advertising Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your actual return on investment based on school type and scholarships.
0 to $40K/year in aid
Est. Total Cost
$16,650
4-year tuition
Net Cost (w/ aid)
$16,650
after scholarships
ROI Payback
2 years
to break even
Lifetime Return
$433,350
Lifetime earnings premium ($450,000) minus net degree cost ($16,650)
Advertising Salary Progression
Common Advertising Careers
Advertising Account Executive
Creative Director
Media Planner
Top Employers
Skills You'll Learn
Top Schools for Advertising
#1
University of Texas
#2
University of Illinois
#3
Syracuse
#4
VCU Brandcenter
#5
University of Florida
Related Majors
Advertising Degree FAQ
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