Mathematics at Gordon College

Gordon College sits in an interesting position among Massachusetts math programs, where estimated earnings align with the state median of $61,761 but fall well short of what elite institutions command. Similar programs across Massachusetts suggest graduates earn about 27% more than the national median for math degrees, though that advantage shrinks considerably when you consider that top-tier programs in the state—MIT, Tufts, Northeastern—push first-year earnings into the $75,000-$110,000 range.

The estimated debt load of $19,334 is manageable relative to these projected earnings, producing a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.31 that's significantly better than the national norm for math programs. Based on comparable Massachusetts programs, graduates would enter debt payments equivalent to roughly five months of their first-year salary, which is a reasonable burden for a field with solid earning potential.

The core question is whether Gordon College's particular strengths—likely a more intimate academic environment given the smaller program size—justify accepting earnings that peer programs suggest will be competitive statewide but modest compared to Massachusetts' academic powerhouses. For families prioritizing affordability and a strong debt position over maximizing first-year salary, the estimated financial profile looks workable. But if your child has the credentials (Gordon's median SAT of 1268 suggests competitive standards), exploring how they'd fare at higher-earning programs in the state would clarify whether they're leaving significant income on the table.