Mathematics at Buena Vista University

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.42 suggests manageable financial footing for this mathematics degree, though both key figures come from peer programs rather than Buena Vista's own graduates. The estimated $51,422 first-year salary aligns with Iowa's state median for math bachelor's degrees and sits above the national median of $48,772, while the projected $21,750 in debt tracks closely with typical borrowing patterns among similar private institutions.

What's less certain is where Buena Vista's outcomes actually fall within Iowa's range. The state's top math programs show considerable variation—from University of Iowa's $60,612 down to Northern Iowa's $42,729—and without reported data for this specific program, parents can't know whether graduates trend toward the higher or lower end. The 72% admission rate and mid-range SAT scores suggest a less selective environment than Iowa's flagship universities, which could influence both the rigor of mathematical preparation and employer perceptions.

The estimated numbers point to a reasonable investment if they hold true: paying off roughly $22,000 in debt on a $51,000 salary is certainly feasible. But that "if" matters significantly. Before committing, request placement data directly from Buena Vista's math department—where graduates work, whether they pursue graduate school, and how many secure positions requiring mathematical expertise versus general business roles. The department should be able to provide concrete outcomes even if federal data can't.