Analysis
Similar mathematics programs in Georgia suggest first-year earnings around $44,400—reasonably close to the national median for this field, though trailing what graduates from UGA and University of North Georgia typically see. The estimated debt load of $21,750 creates a manageable 0.49 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning roughly six months of gross income to cover total borrowing. For context, this debt figure aligns almost exactly with the national median for math bachelor's programs, suggesting typical borrowing patterns at an HBCU where 69% of students receive Pell grants.
The earnings gap between Clark Atlanta and Georgia's flagship programs matters less than it might initially appear. While UGA math graduates average about $3,000 more in year one, the difference narrows when you account for the competitive admission advantage at more selective schools. What's more telling is that peer programs across Georgia show a wide range—from $35,500 to $47,000—and Clark Atlanta lands solidly in the middle of that distribution.
The practical takeaway: based on comparable programs, a mathematics degree here should produce manageable debt relative to earning potential, with first-year income sufficient to begin repayment without strain. The uncertainty around these estimates means you'll want to talk directly with the department about actual placement outcomes and whether graduates land in education, analytics, or other math-adjacent careers that might affect the earnings trajectory.
Where Clark Atlanta University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (38 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $26,446 | $44,424* | — | $21,750* | — | |
| $11,180 | $47,188* | $63,502 | $20,645* | 0.44 | |
| $5,009 | $45,533* | $43,362 | $22,750* | 0.50 | |
| $8,478 | $43,315* | $54,457 | $19,544* | 0.45 | |
| $5,905 | $35,511* | $51,232 | $24,650* | 0.69 | |
| 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 Clark Atlanta University, approximately 69% 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 GA. Actual outcomes may vary.