Mathematics at California State University-Dominguez Hills

CSU-Dominguez Hills graduates about 20 math majors per year who start at $37,568—roughly $1,000 below California's median for math degrees and $11,000 below the national benchmark. While that 14th percentile ranking nationally looks alarming, California's competitive math landscape tells a more nuanced story: this program actually sits near the middle of the pack statewide (40th percentile), outperforming half of California's 67 math programs. The university serves a predominantly low-income population (61% receive Pell grants), and for students choosing between CSU-Dominguez Hills and more expensive options, the debt picture—$21,310—is manageable at just over half of first-year earnings.

The real challenge is the absolute earning level. Starting near $37,500 means these graduates aren't immediately competitive with STEM peers at UC campuses or Cal Poly SLO (where math majors start around $53,000). But with a 91% admission rate, this program provides access to a math degree for students who might not have other four-year options.

For families weighing this choice: if your child needs a California State University option and plans to pursue teaching, actuarial work, or graduate school where the CSU credential suffices, this works. If they're aiming for tech or finance roles where starting salary matters significantly, the earnings gap compared to UC or Cal Poly campuses is substantial enough to consider those alternatives first, assuming admission is realistic.