Mathematics at Hamline University

Based on comparable mathematics programs in Minnesota, Hamline's degree appears positioned right at the state median with estimated first-year earnings around $57,000—substantially above the national benchmark of $48,772. The estimated $23,000 in debt translates to a 0.40 ratio against those earnings, meaning graduates would need roughly five months of gross income to cover their loans. That's manageable territory for a STEM field, though it's worth noting that similar programs at St. Olaf and the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities show slightly higher earnings with comparable debt loads.

What's harder to assess here is value beyond the numbers. Hamline's 90% admission rate and modest SAT scores suggest it serves a different student population than schools like Macalester or St. Olaf, which may attract stronger math students who would succeed anywhere. If your child thrives in smaller, supportive environments and needs that accessibility to launch a math career, the debt-to-earnings picture looks reasonable. But if they're competitive for Minnesota's flagship university or top liberal arts colleges—where actual reported data shows similar or better outcomes—those alternatives merit serious consideration given the uncertainty around Hamline's specific graduate performance.