Analysis
Drawing on estimates from peer mathematics programs nationwide, Limestone's bachelor's degree suggests a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45—below the concerning threshold of 0.60 that typically signals repayment difficulties. The projected $21,750 in debt aligns closely with what mathematics graduates nationally carry, while first-year earnings around $48,800 match both state and national medians almost exactly.
What's worth noting here is the consistency: similar programs in South Carolina cluster tightly around $48,000-$50,000 in starting salaries, from flagship institutions to smaller schools. This pattern suggests mathematics credentials command relatively stable entry-level compensation regardless of institutional prestige. For a school with a 98% admission rate serving a substantial population of Pell-eligible students (43%), Limestone appears positioned to deliver outcomes comparable to more selective alternatives—at least based on what typical mathematics programs produce.
The practical reality: if your student can graduate near these estimated debt levels, the math works. A $22,000 loan on a $49,000 salary translates to manageable monthly payments. However, since these figures reflect broader patterns rather than Limestone's actual track record, verify current costs carefully and ensure your student's likely borrowing stays in this range. Mathematics degrees generally lead to quantitatively-focused careers with growth potential, making this a fundamentally sound investment if the debt stays predictable.
Where Limestone University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in South Carolina
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in South Carolina (29 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $27,500 | $48,772* | — | $21,750* | — | |
| $12,688 | $49,949* | $69,584 | $22,700* | 0.45 | |
| $15,554 | $47,529* | $71,461 | $22,500* | 0.47 | |
| National Median | — | $48,772* | — | $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 Limestone University, approximately 43% 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 national median of 253 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.