Applied Mathematics at Lee University

Based on comparable Applied Mathematics bachelor's programs nationally, Lee University's estimated first-year earnings of $60,930 align precisely with the national median—a solid starting point for a STEM field. The estimated debt load of $25,421, however, runs about $4,000 above what typical Applied Mathematics programs report, which matters when you're trying to assess whether this particular program delivers value. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.42, graduates would theoretically owe less than half their first-year salary, which falls within manageable territory for STEM careers where earnings often climb steadily.

The challenge here is that Lee is one of only five institutions in Tennessee offering this degree, and none of the others have publicly reported outcomes data either. That makes it difficult to gauge whether Lee's program specifically opens doors to Tennessee's engineering and tech employers, or whether students might need to look beyond the state for opportunities. The school's 72% admission rate and modest SAT scores suggest it serves a broader student population than highly selective STEM-focused universities, but without program-specific outcomes, you can't verify how well Lee's particular curriculum and career placement support translates to actual jobs.

If your child is set on Applied Mathematics and prefers staying in Tennessee, request employment placement data directly from Lee's department—where graduates land jobs, which companies recruit on campus, and what internship opportunities exist. The estimated numbers suggest reasonable potential, but you need concrete evidence that this specific program delivers on it.