Mathematics at Belmont Abbey College

A math degree that lands you at around $41,000 in year one—roughly what the typical North Carolina math graduate earns—paired with an estimated $21,750 in debt creates a workable but modest financial picture. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.53 suggests manageable repayment, but this isn't a program positioned for standout returns. When Duke math graduates start at $121,000 and even UNC-Chapel Hill's begin at $53,000, the reality is that Belmont Abbey's estimated outcomes cluster at the lower end of the state's range.

The challenge here is what comes next. Math degrees can lead to lucrative paths in data science, actuarial work, or quantitative finance—but those outcomes typically require either strategic internships, graduate credentials, or moving to markets with stronger demand. At $41,000, you're starting closer to general business roles than specialized quantitative positions. The debt load won't crush anyone, but the first-year salary also won't provide much cushion for exploring options or funding further education.

For parents evaluating this investment, the core question is whether your student has clear plans beyond the bachelor's degree itself. If they're targeting teaching, general analytics roles, or graduate school, these estimated figures suggest a financially reasonable path. If they're hoping the degree alone will open doors to high-paying quant careers, peer programs—even within North Carolina's public universities—appear to position graduates more competitively from the start.