Analysis
Virginia's applied mathematics programs typically produce first-year earnings well above $80,000—the state median—so a national benchmark of around $61,000 deserves scrutiny. Averett's small graduate cohort means we're working with estimates here, but those figures suggest outcomes closer to the national average than what in-state peers deliver. At an estimated debt load of $25,421, the debt-to-earnings ratio looks manageable at 0.42, but you're potentially paying similar debt for significantly lower returns than nearby alternatives.
The gap matters practically: if similar Virginia programs generate $82,000 in first-year earnings versus an estimated $61,000 here, that's $21,000 annually your child might be leaving on the table. Over a decade, even accounting for salary growth, that differential compounds substantially. Applied math should open doors to well-paying technical roles in data analysis, actuarial work, or software development—fields where starting salary often predicts trajectory. An estimated $25,000 in debt isn't catastrophic, but it's above both state and national medians for this degree.
Compare outcomes directly with Virginia Tech and other state programs before committing. If Averett offers specific advantages—smaller classes, particular faculty relationships, or a unique career network—those could justify the investment. But based on peer program data, this appears to be a case where location within Virginia matters considerably for applied mathematics graduates.
Where Averett University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all applied mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Virginia
Applied Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Virginia (6 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $38,550 | $60,930* | — | $25,421* | — | |
| $15,478 | $82,275* | — | $20,500* | 0.25 | |
| National Median | — | $60,930* | — | $21,393* | 0.35 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with applied mathematics graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Actuaries
Economists
Environmental Economists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Mathematicians
Statisticians
Biostatisticians
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 Averett University, approximately 39% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 44 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.