Mathematics at Chatham University

Chatham's mathematics program carries estimated debt of $26,000—higher than the national median for math degrees—while peer programs in Pennsylvania suggest first-year earnings around $48,800. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.53 sits in reasonable territory for a bachelor's degree, meaning graduates would owe roughly half their first-year salary. However, the earnings figure itself tells a less encouraging story: it matches the state median exactly, placing it well behind Pennsylvania's stronger math programs where graduates often start $20,000 to $30,000 higher.

The challenge here is the gap between what you're paying for and what comparable programs deliver. While $48,800 represents a livable starting salary, it's identical to what you'd expect from the typical Pennsylvania math program—despite Chatham's private school tuition structure. The estimated debt reflects this reality: you're borrowing at private school levels to reach outcomes that mirror state averages. For a field where top programs in the same region produce significantly better results, that positioning matters.

If your child is set on Chatham for fit or location reasons, a math degree won't leave them drowning in debt. But push hard on financial aid. Without substantial merit or need-based support bringing that $26,000 figure down, you're likely paying premium prices for middle-of-the-pack outcomes in a state with notably stronger alternatives.