Mathematics at Louisiana State University-Shreveport

A mathematics bachelor's degree carries real earning power, but this program's estimated debt level merits close attention. Based on comparable programs in Louisiana, first-year earnings of $44,136 align exactly with the state median for math degrees, though they lag about $4,600 behind the national median. That gap isn't disqualifying—Louisiana's cost of living runs lower than many states—but it does mean graduates here start behind peers at Tulane, where actual reported outcomes show earnings above $55,000.

The estimated $21,498 in debt sits right at the national median but runs $6,500 higher than Louisiana's typical math degree debt of $15,000. That produces a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49, which is manageable but not impressive. With over a third of students receiving Pell grants, many families here are already stretching financially, making that extra debt burden more consequential than raw numbers suggest.

Here's what matters: if your child can complete this degree with debt closer to Louisiana's $15,000 typical level—through scholarships, work, or family support—the math works reasonably well. But at the estimated $21,500 debt level, they're taking on more than peer programs typically require for similar starting salaries. Before committing, get clarity on actual financial aid packages and compare net costs with LSU's main campus in Baton Rouge, where outcomes appear identical but the debt picture might differ.