Mathematics at Columbus State University

Columbus State's mathematics bachelor's comes with $26,776 in debt—higher than most Georgia peers and above the national median of $21,500 for math programs. Based on comparable Georgia math programs, first-year earnings hover around $44,424, producing a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.60. That's manageable territory, meaning graduates could reasonably expect to pay down this debt within a few years if they pursue STEM careers. However, the debt load still stands out: it's higher than what students at UGA ($47,188 earnings) or Georgia State ($43,315) typically carry, and those programs also show stronger salary outcomes.

The real question is whether Columbus State adequately prepares students for the higher-earning math careers that justify this debt. With a 99% admission rate and average SAT of 994, this is an access-oriented institution serving a significant population of Pell-eligible students (44%). While similar Georgia programs suggest reasonable earnings potential, the combination of elevated debt and uncertain career preparation creates risk. Math majors can command strong salaries in actuarial science, data analytics, or tech roles—but those outcomes aren't guaranteed, especially if graduates struggle to break into competitive fields.

If your child is already drawn to Columbus State for location or family reasons, insist they pursue internships and applied projects that build marketable skills. Otherwise, consider whether nearby alternatives might offer similar access with less debt or stronger industry connections.