Mathematics at College of Coastal Georgia

Similar mathematics programs in Georgia suggest first-year earnings around $44,400, which falls short of the national median for math bachelor's degrees by roughly $4,300. While this isn't dramatically below the national benchmark, it matters when you're trying to justify a four-year investment in a quantitative field that's supposed to open high-paying doors. The estimated debt of $22,750—based on comparable programs at Georgia's public colleges—produces a manageable 0.51 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe about half their first year's salary.

The real question is opportunity cost. Math degrees from Georgia's flagship universities show reported earnings ranging from $35,500 to $47,200 in the first year, suggesting significant variation even within the state. College of Coastal Georgia serves a legitimate regional purpose with its 99% admission rate and substantial Pell population, but families should recognize that peer programs at this level appear to produce modest starting salaries. A math degree's value typically comes from what you do with it—data science, actuarial work, secondary teaching—and those career paths may require additional credentials or geographic mobility that could shift the financial picture considerably.

The borrowing looks reasonable if the earnings materialize as comparable programs suggest, but understand you're working with approximations here, not this school's actual track record. If your student is committed to staying in coastal Georgia and values accessibility over prestige, this could work—just ensure they have a clear post-graduation plan that leverages the degree.