Analysis
Is a math degree from Benedict College a sound financial path? The numbers suggest reasonable promise, though they come with important caveats. Based on comparable mathematics programs nationally, graduates might expect first-year earnings around $48,800 with debt near $21,750—a manageable 0.45 ratio that falls within responsible borrowing territory. These figures align closely with what South Carolina's other math programs typically produce, including outcomes at flagship schools like USC and Clemson.
What matters for Benedict specifically is the institution's mission and student population. With 63% of students receiving Pell grants and a selective-yet-accessible admission profile, this program serves students who might not otherwise access STEM credentials. The estimated debt load is notably lower than many bachelor's programs nationally, which partially offsets uncertainty about whether Benedict's graduates will match the national median. Mathematics degrees generally provide versatile career options—data analysis, actuarial work, education, finance—that can support debt repayment even if initial earnings land somewhat below estimates.
The practical question: without school-specific data (suppressed due to small graduating cohorts), you're making a judgment call based on peer performance and Benedict's track record with similar student populations. If your child is committed to mathematics and Benedict offers the support systems and rigor they need to succeed, the estimated financial picture doesn't present red flags. The debt is contained, and math credentials retain market value across multiple career paths.
Where Benedict College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in South Carolina
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in South Carolina (29 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $18,000 | $48,772* | — | $21,750* | — | |
| $12,688 | $49,949* | $69,584 | $22,700* | 0.45 | |
| $15,554 | $47,529* | $71,461 | $22,500* | 0.47 | |
| 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 Benedict College, approximately 63% 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 253 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.