Analysis
Based on comparable mathematics programs in Minnesota, this bachelor's degree appears positioned to deliver solid first-year earnings of around $57,000—right at the state median and well above the national benchmark of $49,000. With estimated debt of $21,500, graduates would face payments representing roughly 38% of first-year income, a manageable ratio that suggests the degree can pay for itself reasonably quickly.
What's striking is how closely this program's estimated performance aligns with reported outcomes from Minnesota's flagship institutions. Similar programs across the state—from small liberal arts colleges to large research universities—cluster tightly in the $54,000-$59,000 range. This consistency suggests Minnesota mathematics graduates generally enter similar career paths, whether in teaching, data analysis, or quantitative roles, with relatively predictable starting salaries regardless of institutional prestige.
The real limitation here is uncertainty. These estimates tell us what peer programs typically produce, not what Bemidji State specifically delivers for its mathematics graduates. For a selective private college charging premium tuition, that uncertainty might be troubling. But at a regional public university with a 71% admission rate and moderate debt levels, the risk feels proportional. If Bemidji State's actual outcomes track anywhere near the state median—which seems plausible given the broader pattern—this represents a sensible investment for students interested in mathematics careers.
Where Bemidji State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Minnesota
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Minnesota (27 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $10,164 | $57,166* | — | $21,498* | — | |
| $56,970 | $58,825* | $72,810 | $23,000* | 0.39 | |
| $16,488 | $58,153* | $72,102 | $22,095* | 0.38 | |
| $64,908 | $57,166* | — | $22,483* | 0.39 | |
| $14,318 | $55,482* | $65,774 | $23,975* | 0.43 | |
| $43,942 | $54,387* | — | $26,452* | 0.49 | |
| National Median | — | $48,772* | — | $21,500* | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with mathematics graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Mathematicians
Statisticians
Biostatisticians
Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Mathematical Science Occupations, All Other
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 Bemidji State University, approximately 26% 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 median of 5 similar programs in MN. Actual outcomes may vary.