Mathematics and Computer Science at George Mason University

The sample size here demands caution—with fewer than 30 graduates, we're looking through a narrow window that may not reflect typical outcomes. That said, the numbers suggest George Mason's Mathematics and Computer Science program lags substantially behind national norms for this degree, with first-year earnings of $53,179 falling to just the 12th percentile nationally (the national median is $89,651). In Virginia, though, this program sits at the median, which tells you more about the limited landscape for this specific degree in the state than about Mason's strength—only two Virginia schools report data for this program.

The debt picture is more favorable: $27,000 ranks in the 9th percentile nationally, meaning 91% of comparable programs saddle graduates with more debt. Combined with the relatively low debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.51, graduates can reasonably manage repayment even with below-typical starting salaries. However, that starting salary gap—nearly $36,000 below the national median—represents real money that compounds over a career.

Given Mason's 89% admission rate and accessible price point, this program may serve a specific purpose for students seeking an affordable path into tech-adjacent fields. But families should ask hard questions about whether this particular degree combination positions graduates competitively, or if pursuing computer science alone (a more established major at Mason) might deliver stronger outcomes. The small sample makes it impossible to know if these numbers are anomalies or patterns.