Analysis
A $26,000 debt load for a degree that typically starts around $48,800—based on what comparable Pennsylvania math programs produce—lands right at the state median for both metrics. This puts Cairn's estimated outcomes squarely in the middle of the pack for Pennsylvania bachelor's degrees in mathematics, though significantly behind the state's standout programs where first-year earnings can exceed $70,000.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.53 suggests manageable repayment under standard terms, but context matters here. Similar programs across Pennsylvania show enormous variation in graduate outcomes, from elite institutions that nearly double these earnings to regional schools clustered around this $48,800 figure. Without actual reported data for Cairn's specific graduates, it's unclear whether this program produces the stronger outcomes that justify even moderate debt, or whether students might fare better at one of Pennsylvania's many other math programs.
For families considering this program, the key question is whether Cairn offers something distinctive—perhaps stronger teaching preparation, faith integration, or student support—that compensates for the uncertainty around outcomes. The estimated figures suggest adequate but unremarkable returns. If your child is serious about mathematics and qualifies for programs like Temple or Drexel, where actual reported earnings run $10,000-$20,000 higher in the first year, those would offer clearer evidence of stronger career positioning.
Where Cairn University-Langhorne Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (74 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $32,625 | $48,800* | — | $25,990* | — | |
| $64,701 | $75,481* | $84,324 | $25,454* | 0.34 | |
| $62,412 | $72,656* | — | —* | — | |
| $60,663 | $70,313* | $81,966 | $30,899* | 0.44 | |
| $22,082 | $59,167* | $54,614 | $22,500* | 0.38 | |
| $47,146 | $49,314* | $62,639 | $26,940* | 0.55 | |
| 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 Cairn University-Langhorne, approximately 30% 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 12 similar programs in PA. Actual outcomes may vary.