Analysis
Similar mathematics programs in Iowa suggest first-year earnings around $51,400, which aligns closely with the state median and sits above the national benchmark of $48,800. The estimated debt load of $21,750 creates a manageable 0.42 ratio—meaning graduates would need less than half their first year's salary to cover what they borrowed. For a private institution serving a student body where nearly half receive Pell grants, these projected figures indicate reasonable alignment between cost and outcomes.
The challenge is context: Iowa's mathematics bachelor's programs show significant variation, with University of Iowa graduates earning $60,600 while University of Northern Iowa alumni start at $42,700. Where Graceland's actual graduates would fall in this $18,000 range matters enormously for determining value. The estimates suggest middle-of-the-pack performance, but without actual data from this specific program, you're making decisions based on what happens at peer institutions rather than Graceland's track record.
If your child is choosing Graceland for reasons beyond pure economics—fit, community, or specific program features—the estimated numbers don't raise red flags. But if this is primarily a financial decision, recognize you're betting on Graceland performing like the average Iowa mathematics program. Request placement data and alumni outcomes directly from the department to fill in what federal data can't tell you.
Where Graceland University-Lamoni Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Iowa
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Iowa (25 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $33,220 | $51,422* | — | $21,750* | — | |
| $10,964 | $60,612* | $72,728 | $21,738* | 0.36 | |
| $10,497 | $51,422* | $58,347 | $22,942* | 0.45 | |
| $9,728 | $42,729* | $45,688 | $19,723* | 0.46 | |
| 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 Graceland University-Lamoni, approximately 45% 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 3 similar programs in IA. Actual outcomes may vary.