Analysis
Bethel's Applied Mathematics program shows promising potential based on what similar programs nationally deliver, though the lack of specific graduate outcomes for this school means families should approach with realistic expectations. Peer mathematics programs suggest first-year earnings around $60,930—solid for a bachelor's degree—against estimated debt of $25,421. That 0.42 debt-to-earnings ratio falls comfortably below concerning thresholds and suggests manageable repayment, assuming Bethel's graduates match these benchmarks.
The challenge is uncertainty. With a 99% admission rate and modest SAT scores averaging 1073, Bethel serves a different student population than selective universities where applied math majors might have stronger placement networks or graduate school pipelines. Mathematics programs are particularly sensitive to institutional resources—faculty expertise, research opportunities, industry connections—which vary dramatically even among schools offering the same major. The national data can't tell you whether Bethel's specific program delivers the preparation that turns mathematical training into $60,000+ job offers.
For families considering this investment, the estimated numbers suggest reasonable value *if* outcomes align with peer programs. But given the data gaps, you'll want direct evidence: Where do Bethel math graduates actually work? What percentage land analyst or data science roles versus less technical positions? The 35% Pell Grant rate indicates the school serves price-conscious families who can't afford expensive miscalculations—making these concrete placement details essential before committing $25,000 in debt.
Where Bethel University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all applied mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Applied Mathematics bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $33,320 | $60,930* | — | $25,421* | — | |
| $59,076 | $114,279* | $166,324 | —* | — | |
| $68,230 | $99,193* | $125,979 | $10,000* | 0.10 | |
| $60,952 | $97,700* | — | $25,841* | 0.26 | |
| $65,997 | $94,684* | — | —* | — | |
| $69,045 | $91,559* | — | —* | — | |
| 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 Bethel University, approximately 35% 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.