Analysis
A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45 positions Cornerstone's mathematics program in manageable territory, though the underlying figures come from peer institutions rather than this school's own graduates. Similar bachelor's programs in Michigan suggest first-year earnings around $48,000—essentially matching the national median—with debt levels estimated at $21,750 based on comparable private nonprofit institutions nationwide.
The mathematics job market in Michigan shows considerable variation. While University of Michigan graduates command $80,000+ starting salaries, most state programs cluster in the mid-to-high $40,000s, making Cornerstone's estimated outcomes unremarkable but not concerning. The moderate debt load means graduates would dedicate roughly half their first-year salary to loan repayment, leaving reasonable financial breathing room. Cornerstone's 30% Pell grant population suggests a commitment to access, though parents should verify actual financial aid packages rather than assuming these estimates will hold.
The critical question is pathway: Does your student plan to teach secondary math, pursue actuarial work, or continue to graduate school? Each path carries different earnings trajectories, and the estimated $48,000 figure represents an average that may not reflect your child's specific goals. Request placement data directly from Cornerstone's career services—where do their mathematics graduates actually land, and what do those positions pay in year one?
Where Cornerstone University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Michigan
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (31 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $29,100 | $47,951* | — | $21,750* | — | |
| $17,228 | $80,676* | $97,139 | $21,589* | 0.27 | |
| $15,988 | $47,951* | $54,324 | $21,500* | 0.45 | |
| $14,628 | $45,349* | $46,279 | $27,000* | 0.60 | |
| 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 Cornerstone University, approximately 30% 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 3 similar programs in MI. Actual outcomes may vary.