Applied Mathematics at Hawaii Pacific University

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.42 suggests manageable debt for an Applied Mathematics bachelor's—typically a strong career foundation—but both figures here are national estimates rather than outcomes specific to Hawaii Pacific. Based on peer programs nationwide, first-year earnings around $60,930 represent the median for this field, with graduates at stronger programs reaching over $71,000. The estimated $25,421 in debt sits slightly above the national median of $21,393, though it remains below the concerning threshold where repayment becomes burdensome.

The bigger question is whether Hawaii Pacific provides the same pathway as mainland programs. Applied math graduates often secure analyst, actuarial, or tech roles that command solid salaries, but Hawaii's smaller tech sector and higher cost of living could impact both job availability and how far those earnings stretch. With an 84% admission rate and modest SAT profile, this isn't a selective program that signals exceptional rigor to employers—a factor that matters in quantitative fields where elite programs dominate recruitment pipelines.

Given the complete absence of reported outcomes data—not just for this program but for any applied math bachelor's in Hawaii—you're essentially betting on national trends applying locally. If your child is committed to staying in Hawaii post-graduation, investigate where HPU math graduates actually land jobs and whether those positions justify even modest debt in one of America's most expensive states.