Analysis
Similar mathematics programs across Georgia suggest first-year earnings around $44,400—below the national median of $48,800 for math bachelor's degrees. For Clayton State's primarily working-class student body (52% receive Pell grants), this represents meaningful mobility, but it's worth noting that peer programs at UGA and the University of North Georgia achieve higher outcomes, with graduates earning closer to $47,000-$48,000.
The estimated debt load of $22,750 creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.51, meaning graduates would owe roughly half their first-year salary. This positions Clayton State competitively within Georgia's landscape, where math programs typically carry similar debt burdens. The math itself works: at standard repayment terms, this debt level shouldn't consume more than 10-12% of monthly income for someone earning in this range.
The real question is trajectory. Mathematics degrees typically offer strong earnings growth potential, and Clayton State serves students who might not access programs at more selective institutions. If your child thrives in smaller settings and plans to stay in the Atlanta metro area—where demand for quantitative skills runs high—the moderate debt and accessible environment could outweigh the slightly lower starting salary. Just understand you're working with statewide estimates here, not outcomes specific to Clayton State's program.
Where Clayton State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Clayton State UniversityMorrow | $5,068 | $44,424* | — | $22,750* | — |
 University of GeorgiaAthens | $11,180 | $47,188* | $63,502 | $20,645* | 0.44 |
 University of North GeorgiaDahlonega | $5,009 | $45,533* | $43,362 | $22,750* | 0.50 |
 Georgia State UniversityAtlanta | $8,478 | $43,315* | $54,457 | $19,544* | 0.45 |
 Georgia Southern UniversityStatesboro | $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 Clayton State University, approximately 52% 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.