Mathematics at Augustana University

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45 suggests a manageable financial start for Augustana's mathematics graduates, based on what peer programs typically produce. With estimated first-year earnings around $48,800 against roughly $21,800 in debt, this falls into the range financial experts consider sustainable—you'd expect monthly loan payments well under 10% of gross income on a standard repayment plan.

What's less clear is whether Augustana's specific outcomes justify a debt load that runs slightly higher than South Dakota State's reported $18,000 median. Similar mathematics programs across the state show first-year earnings of $46,500, putting Augustana's estimated figure modestly above the local benchmark. The university's relatively selective profile (SAT scores above 1180, limited Pell enrollment) suggests it may attract students who would perform well anywhere, though we can't know from these estimates whether the program itself adds distinctive value through placement networks, research opportunities, or graduate school preparation.

The safer bet here is recognizing that mathematics degrees generally produce solid financial outcomes—the national data spanning over 1,200 programs confirms this. But with both figures estimated from peer institutions rather than Augustana's actual track record, you're essentially betting on the program performing at least as well as comparable offerings elsewhere. If your student has admission options with reported outcomes data, those would give you firmer ground for comparison.