Mathematics at Lewis & Clark College

Based on comparable programs in Oregon, this math degree appears to produce first-year earnings around $41,300—about $7,500 below the national median for math graduates. That gap matters because mathematical skills are typically valued consistently across regions, yet Lewis & Clark's estimated outcomes lag behind what Oregon State ($45,200) and Portland State ($37,400) report for their graduates.

The estimated $21,750 in debt sits right at the national median for math programs, translating to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.53. While that's manageable in absolute terms—roughly half a year's salary—it's concerning when paired with below-average earnings. Similar Oregon programs suggest graduates would need about seven months of gross income to cover this debt, which is workable but hardly competitive. The school's 75% admission rate and strong SAT scores (1321) indicate selective admissions, yet the estimated financial outcomes don't reflect that selectivity advantage you'd hope to see.

For families weighing this investment, the core question is whether Lewis & Clark's smaller math program (hence the suppressed data) offers teaching quality or connections that justify trailing peer institutions by thousands of dollars annually. The estimation uncertainty here is real—actual outcomes could be better or worse. If your student is drawn to this school specifically, request placement data and alumni contact information to verify whether graduates land the kinds of positions that would close that earnings gap over time.