Analysis
While concrete outcomes for Fairleigh Dickinson's math program aren't available due to small graduate cohorts, we can look at what mathematics bachelor's degrees typically produce in New Jersey. Similar programs across the state suggest first-year earnings around $50,800, which aligns closely with the national benchmark for math degrees. With estimated debt of $21,750, graduates would face a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.43—manageable by most standards, as that's less than half the first year's salary.
The challenge becomes clearer when comparing to other New Jersey schools where data exists. New Jersey Institute of Technology math graduates start at $65,725, while the Rutgers campuses produce $54,953—both meaningfully higher than what peer programs suggest for FDU. That's a $4,000 to $15,000 gap in starting salary, which compounds significantly over a career. Given FDU's 96% acceptance rate, it seems the institution emphasizes access over selectivity, which may explain why outcomes appear to trail more competitive state options.
For families weighing this program, the math degree itself appears affordable with reasonable debt levels. However, if your child qualifies for admission at Rutgers or NJIT—both public institutions with likely similar or lower costs—those programs show documented track records of stronger earnings outcomes. The uncertainty around FDU's specific results makes it harder to justify over schools where the return is clearer.
Where Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in New Jersey
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New Jersey (26 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $35,822 | $50,810* | — | $21,750* | — | |
| $19,022 | $65,725* | $67,694 | $26,190* | 0.40 | |
| $16,586 | $54,953* | $77,902 | $23,000* | 0.42 | |
| $17,239 | $54,953* | $77,902 | $23,000* | 0.42 | |
| $17,079 | $54,953* | $77,902 | $23,000* | 0.42 | |
| $15,532 | $53,915* | $59,973 | $25,984* | 0.48 | |
| 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 Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus, approximately 22% 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 13 similar programs in NJ. Actual outcomes may vary.