Mathematics at Boston University

Boston University's mathematics program delivers strong early earnings that trail the state's elite programs by a meaningful margin. Starting at $64,604, BU math graduates earn 33% above the national median and rank in the 91st percentile nationally—solid numbers that reflect the university's selective admissions. But among Massachusetts programs, this lands at the 60th percentile, well behind MIT ($109,288), Tufts ($110,512), and even smaller schools like Amherst ($78,500).

The value equation here is straightforward: reasonable debt ($19,750) paired with good but not exceptional earnings. The 0.31 debt-to-earnings ratio is manageable, and graduates can comfortably handle loan payments while building their careers. However, the modest 6% earnings growth to year 4 suggests this program may position students more for entry-level quantitative roles rather than the high-paying tech or finance positions that boost earnings at competing Massachusetts schools.

For families considering BU at full freight alongside more affordable state options, the premium may be hard to justify when graduates earn similar amounts to the Massachusetts median. But if your student has strong aid or is committed to Boston's urban campus, this program delivers respectable outcomes with minimal debt burden. Just understand you're paying for the BU name and experience, not dramatic earnings advantages over other Massachusetts math programs.