Analysis
Eastern University's mathematics program carries above-average debt at $25,990, though similar programs across Pennsylvania suggest first-year earnings around $48,800—putting the debt burden at just over half of what graduates typically make in their first year. That's a manageable ratio by most standards, though it's worth noting that peer programs in the state show wide variation in outcomes, with Temple graduates earning about $10,000 more and elite programs like Villanova nearly doubling these figures.
The debt load sits slightly below Pennsylvania's median for math programs but above the national benchmark, reflecting Eastern's 94% admission rate and mission serving a significant population of Pell grant students. The real question is whether Eastern's program provides the foundation needed to compete for positions that pay closer to what Temple or Drexel graduates command, or whether graduates can expect to start nearer the state median.
For families weighing this investment, the debt-to-earnings picture appears workable—not concerning, not exceptional. The key uncertainty is where Eastern's actual graduates land within that broad range of Pennsylvania outcomes. If your child has strong interest in mathematics and values Eastern's community, the financial fundamentals don't rule it out. But understanding whether graduates trend toward the higher or lower end of that $49,000-$75,000 range would require deeper investigation into career outcomes and alumni networks.
Where Eastern University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (74 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $37,420 | $48,800* | — | $25,990 | — | |
| $64,701 | $75,481* | $84,324 | $25,454 | 0.34 | |
| $62,412 | $72,656* | — | — | — | |
| $60,663 | $70,313* | $81,966 | $30,899 | 0.44 | |
| $22,082 | $59,167* | $54,614 | $22,500 | 0.38 | |
| $47,146 | $49,314* | $62,639 | $26,940 | 0.55 | |
| 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 Eastern University, approximately 36% 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 12 similar programs in PA. Actual outcomes may vary.