Analysis
In Arkansas, math bachelor's programs produce varied outcomes, with first-year earnings spanning from around $33,000 to $41,000 at schools with reported data. Similar programs across the state suggest typical earnings of roughly $41,000โabout $8,000 below what math graduates earn nationally. John Brown's estimated figures align with this state pattern, though the $22,000 in projected debt runs higher than Arkansas' typical $17,000 for math programs.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.53 remains manageable, meaning graduates would owe about half their first year's salary. Comparable programs nationally carry similar debt loads, so the higher number here reflects John Brown's pricing rather than unusual borrowing behavior for math majors. With manageable monthly payments and math skills that typically grow more valuable over time, the financial picture works if your student plans to stay in Arkansas or doesn't mind starting below the national math graduate average.
The practical question is whether John Brown's Christian liberal arts environment justifies paying above the Arkansas baseline for a degree whose job prospects largely depend on field-specific skills. If your child values the university's mission and community, the estimated $5,000 premium in debt over state peers won't derail their finances. But if they're purely focused on math career preparation, programs at larger Arkansas universities offer similar estimated earnings with lower typical debt loads.
Where John Brown University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Arkansas
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Arkansas (17 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $30,832 | $40,993* | โ | $21,750* | โ | |
| $9,748 | $41,409* | $63,050 | $16,500* | 0.40 | |
| $10,118 | $40,993* | โ | $16,711* | 0.41 | |
| $7,754 | $32,625* | $39,009 | $20,500* | 0.63 | |
| National Median | โ | $48,772* | โ | $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 John Brown University, approximately 21% 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 AR. Actual outcomes may vary.