Applied Mathematics at Gonzaga University

Gonzaga's Applied Mathematics bachelor's degree sits in an unusual position: national peer programs suggest first-year earnings around $61,000, yet the one Washington school with reported data shows just $27,600. That's a stark gap—more than double—and it raises real questions about what Applied Math graduates actually earn in the Pacific Northwest versus national averages. Since Gonzaga's figures are extrapolated from national medians rather than actual alumni outcomes, parents face considerable uncertainty about whether this program follows the national pattern or the dramatically lower Washington trend.

The estimated $25,400 in debt translates to a manageable 0.42 ratio if earnings hit that $61,000 mark, but becomes far more concerning at Washington State's reported $27,600 level—nearly a full year's salary just to cover loans. Applied Mathematics programs vary widely in their focus and employer connections; some emphasize computational skills that command strong tech salaries, while others lean theoretical and struggle in the job market. Without actual outcome data from Gonzaga, there's no way to know which camp this program falls into or why Washington's reported figure diverges so sharply from national norms.

The practical issue: you're making a financial decision with incomplete information about a program that might perform like its national peers or might align with Washington's much lower outcomes. Before committing, demand specifics from Gonzaga about where their Applied Math graduates actually work and what they earn—not national estimates, but real placement data from recent classes.