Analysis
Based on comparable mathematics programs in Oregon, Bushnell's graduates can expect starting earnings around $41,300—right at the state median but about $7,500 below what math majors earn nationally. The estimated debt of $21,750 creates a manageable ratio of 0.53, meaning roughly half a year's earnings would cover the full loan balance. That's workable, though Oregon State's larger programs show that math degrees in the state can launch careers with initial salaries closer to $45,000.
The real question is whether a smaller program at Bushnell offers advantages that offset these lower earnings projections. Mathematics is typically a portable credential, and starting around $41,000 isn't dire—but it does lag behind both the national benchmark and what Oregon's flagship universities are producing. The modest debt load helps, keeping monthly payments reasonable even at these earnings levels.
For parents, this comes down to fit versus financial optimization. If your child thrives in Bushnell's smaller, faith-based environment, the estimated debt-to-earnings picture won't derail their financial future. But if maximizing early career earnings matters—or if they're considering graduate school where undergraduate costs compound—the gap between Bushnell's projected outcomes and larger state programs is worth weighing seriously.
Where Bushnell University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Oregon
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Oregon (16 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $34,740 | $41,316* | — | $21,750* | — | |
| $13,494 | $45,204* | $58,658 | $19,417* | 0.43 | |
| $12,594 | $45,204* | $58,658 | $19,417* | 0.43 | |
| $11,238 | $37,427* | $63,659 | $26,480* | 0.71 | |
| $15,669 | $25,241* | $62,817 | $15,475* | 0.61 | |
| National Median | — | $48,772* | — | $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 Bushnell University, approximately 34% 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 4 similar programs in OR. Actual outcomes may vary.