General Merchandising, Sales, and Related Marketing Operations, Other.
Data details: Graduation rate, gender, ethnicity, and summary are for this specific degree (6-digit CIP) from IPEDS. Salary, debt, and related financial outcomes are based on the degree category (4-digit CIP) from the College Scorecard API. ← Back to search
All data shown below (except Graduation rate, gender, ethnicity) is based on the category, not just this specific degree.
Please use your own discretion when interpreting these results. For certain degrees, a limited number of institutions report to the government's College Scorecard API, which may cause the data to be skewed or less representative of national trends. Consider these figures as informative but not definitive, and consult additional sources or advisors for important decisions.
Debt to Income Ratio
Debt-to-income analysis for General Merchandising, Sales, and Related Marketing Operations, Other.: The DTI for this program is 52.0%, which is within the generally accepted range for higher education. While not as low as some top-performing degrees, this ratio suggests that most graduates can manage their student loan payments, especially if they secure employment in related fields. If you are considering General Merchandising, Sales, and Related Marketing Operations, Other., compare your expected starting salary (currently $44603) to the average debt ($23199) to ensure it fits your financial goals in .
Degrees with a DTI between 0.5 and 0.8 are common, but it's wise to plan your budget and consider loan repayment options.
Important financial note for General Merchandising, Sales, and Related Marketing Operations, Other.: The debt-to-income ratio for this program is 52.0%, which is above the recommended maximum of 80%. This means that, on average, graduates may need to dedicate a significant portion of their first-year earnings to student loan payments. If you are considering General Merchandising, Sales, and Related Marketing Operations, Other., be sure to weigh the average starting salary ($44603) against the typical student debt ($23199), and explore scholarships, grants, or alternative funding sources to reduce your financial burden in and beyond.
Key Insights
Considering General Merchandising, Sales, and Related Marketing Operations, Other.? This major is known for its blend of hands-on learning and career-ready skills. Graduates often start out earning $44603, and with an average student debt of $23199, the debt-to-income ratio is 0.52—pretty reasonable for most students.
With more than 5965 students earning this degree each year, you’ll be part of a vibrant community. Whether you’re interested in job security, making a difference, or just want a degree that opens doors, General Merchandising, Sales, and Related Marketing Operations, Other. is a smart choice. Don’t forget: internships, networking, and campus involvement can make your experience even more valuable.
Degree Overview
General Merchandising, Sales, and Related Marketing Operations, Other (CIP 52.1899) is a practical and versatile business degree designed for programs that prepare students to operate in sales, merchandising, retail management, and marketing functions. This CIP code represents non-traditional, interdisciplinary, or emerging programs that focus on the business of selling, promoting, and managing products or services across a variety of industries.
At its core, general merchandising and sales management is about connecting products or services with customers while optimizing operational and marketing strategies. Programs under 52.1899 teach students how to manage sales teams, develop merchandising plans, analyze market trends, and implement marketing strategies that drive revenue. Graduates gain analytical, strategic, and operational skills necessary for success in competitive business environments.
This degree category is especially relevant as businesses seek professionals who can combine sales expertise, merchandising insight, and marketing strategy to enhance customer engagement and business performance.
What Is a General Merchandising, Sales, and Related Marketing Operations Degree?
A degree classified under CIP 52.1899 represents programs that integrate business, marketing, and sales principles with a focus on merchandising and operational management. Schools use this classification for programs that prepare students for roles involving retail operations, sales management, and strategic product promotion beyond traditional marketing or sales tracks.
Depending on the institution, programs may include coursework in:
- Retail management and merchandising strategies
- Sales techniques and customer relationship management
- Marketing and promotional planning
- Product assortment, inventory, and supply chain management
- Pricing, forecasting, and financial analysis
- Consumer behavior and market research
- E-commerce and digital retail operations
- Sales operations and performance metrics
- Ethics, compliance, and professional standards in sales
The emphasis is on practical, industry-relevant skills that enable graduates to manage sales operations, optimize merchandising strategies, and drive business growth.
Who Should Consider This Degree?
General Merchandising, Sales, and Related Marketing Operations, Other is ideal for students who:
- Are interested in sales, retail management, or marketing operations
- Enjoy working with products, customers, and business strategy
- Want versatile career options in merchandising, sales, or marketing
- Prefer applied learning with real-world industry relevance
- May pursue certifications in sales, retail management, or marketing
This degree appeals to individuals who value strategic thinking, customer focus, and operational efficiency.
What Will You Learn?
Students in 52.1899 programs learn to develop, implement, and evaluate merchandising, sales, and marketing strategies. Coursework emphasizes market analysis, customer engagement, and operational management.
You will develop the ability to plan product assortments, manage inventory, lead sales teams, and apply marketing techniques to drive revenue and customer satisfaction.
Core Skills You’ll Build
Most programs help students develop skills such as:
- Managing retail operations and merchandising plans
- Implementing sales strategies and managing sales teams
- Analyzing market trends and consumer behavior
- Planning pricing, promotions, and product assortments
- Using digital tools and e-commerce platforms for merchandising
- Conducting inventory management and forecasting
- Applying ethical practices in sales and marketing operations
- Communicating effectively with customers, colleagues, and management
These skills are essential for success in sales, retail management, and marketing operations roles.
Topics You May Explore
Coursework may include subjects such as:
- Retail management and merchandising
- Sales techniques and customer relationship management
- Marketing strategy and promotion
- Product assortment planning and inventory control
- Pricing, forecasting, and performance metrics
- Consumer behavior and market research
- E-commerce and digital retail operations
- Sales operations and team management
- Ethics and compliance in business operations
Programs often include internships, experiential learning, or projects to build practical experience.
What Jobs Can You Get With This Degree?
A General Merchandising, Sales, and Related Marketing Operations, Other degree prepares graduates for a wide range of roles in retail, sales, and marketing.
Common career paths include:
- Retail Manager or Store Manager
- Sales Manager or Sales Coordinator
- Merchandising or Product Manager
- Market Research Analyst
- E-commerce or Digital Sales Specialist
- Customer Relationship Manager
- Sales Operations Analyst
- Business Development Associate
Experience, internships, or professional certifications can help graduates advance into leadership or specialized roles.
Where Can You Work?
Graduates commonly work in:
- Retail stores and department chains
- E-commerce and online marketplaces
- Sales and marketing departments of corporations
- Wholesale and distribution companies
- Consumer goods and product companies
- Marketing and merchandising agencies
- Consulting firms specializing in retail or sales operations
Sales and merchandising expertise is in demand across industries, providing broad career opportunities.
How Much Can You Earn?
Earnings vary based on role, experience, and industry. Typical ranges include:
- Entry-level sales or merchandising roles: $35,000–$50,000 annually
- Mid-level managers or coordinators: $50,000–$75,000
- Senior managers, directors, or specialized marketing roles: $80,000–$120,000+
Professional certifications and experience can further increase earning potential.
Is This Degree Hard?
The academic difficulty is moderate. Students must be comfortable with analytical thinking, communication, market analysis, and operational planning. Success requires problem-solving, customer focus, and attention to detail.
Who Should Choose CIP 52.1899 Specifically?
This CIP code may be a strong match if you:
- Are interested in retail management, sales, or merchandising
- Enjoy working with products, customers, and business operations
- Want versatile and applied business skills
- May pursue leadership roles in retail or marketing operations
- Value practical, industry-relevant experience and strategic thinking
How to Prepare in High School
Students interested in merchandising, sales, or marketing should:
- Take business, marketing, and economics courses
- Develop communication, analytical, and organizational skills
- Participate in business clubs, DECA, or entrepreneurship competitions
- Learn about sales, merchandising, and digital marketing tools
- Explore internships, part-time work, or volunteer opportunities in retail or business operations
General Merchandising, Sales, and Related Marketing Operations, Other represents a practical, versatile, and high-demand pathway for students who want to develop skills in sales, merchandising, and marketing—preparing them for careers across retail, e-commerce, and business operations.
Personality Fit (RIASEC Profile)
Official assessment tool by the U.S. Department of Labor