Mathematics at Black Hills State University

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44 suggests this program could work financially—students from comparable mathematics bachelor's programs nationwide typically borrow about $21,500 and earn roughly $49,000 in their first year. That means the debt burden represents less than half a year's salary, which is manageable if graduates secure positions quickly. However, it's worth noting that South Dakota State's mathematics program—the only in-state peer with reported outcomes—shows slightly lower first-year earnings at $46,520, though graduates there also typically carry less debt at $18,000.

The real question is whether Black Hills State can match the national trajectory these estimates suggest. The school's 94% admission rate and modest SAT scores indicate it serves a broad range of students, which isn't necessarily negative but does mean individual outcomes may vary more widely than at highly selective institutions. Mathematics degrees generally offer solid career flexibility—from teaching to actuarial work to data analysis—but first-year earnings can depend heavily on the specific path graduates choose and whether they stay in South Dakota, where salaries tend to run slightly below the national median for this field.

For families, this looks like a reasonable bet if your student is genuinely committed to mathematics and has a clear sense of what they'll do with the degree. The estimated debt load isn't crushing, but without actual program-specific data, you're relying on the assumption that Black Hills State's outcomes mirror those of similar programs nationwide.