Analysis
Compared to other mathematics programs in Minnesota, the estimated outcomes here look solidly middle-of-the-pack. Similar programs in the state suggest first-year earnings around $57,000βmatching the state median and notably above the national benchmark of $49,000. That $23,000 in estimated debt translates to a 0.40 debt-to-earnings ratio, which means manageable monthly payments relative to expected income.
The uncertainty cuts both ways for a small Lutheran college. Bethany's actual outcomes could run higher if their close-knit program produces graduates who land strong positions, or lower if job placement proves more challenging than at larger universities. The state's peer programs range from about $54,000 to $59,000 in first-year earnings, so there's limited downside risk based on what comparable Minnesota schools achieve. Mathematics graduates generally enjoy strong employment prospects, which provides some cushion against the estimation uncertainty.
For parents weighing this choice: the estimated financial picture suggests reasonable value if your student thrives in Bethany's small-college environment. The projected debt burden won't be crushing, and mathematics degrees open doors across multiple industries. However, you're operating without hard data specific to this program's track record. If outcomes matter more than environment, consider asking Bethany directly about graduate employment or comparing against nearby schools with reported data like St. Olaf or the University of Minnesota system.
Where Bethany Lutheran College 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)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $30,010 | $57,166* | β | $23,000* | β | |
| $56,970 | $58,825* | $72,810 | $23,000* | 0.39 | |
| $16,488 | $58,153* | $72,102 | $22,095* | 0.38 | |
| $64,908 | $57,166* | β | $22,483* | 0.39 | |
| $14,318 | $55,482* | $65,774 | $23,975* | 0.43 | |
| $43,942 | $54,387* | β | $26,452* | 0.49 | |
| National Median | β | $48,772* | β | $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 Bethany Lutheran College, approximately 22% 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.