Analysis
Massachusetts math programs typically produce solid first-year earnings, and Merrimack's estimated outcomes align with that state median at $61,761—considerably above the national benchmark of $48,772. The estimated debt of $19,334 creates a manageable 0.31 ratio, meaning graduates would owe roughly a third of their first-year salary. For context, math programs nationally carry median debt of $21,500, so these figures suggest a relatively favorable borrowing picture.
The gap between Merrimack's estimated outcomes and the state's top performers is substantial. MIT and Tufts graduates earn nearly double in their first year, while Northeastern and Bentley graduates pull in $15,000-20,000 more. This disparity reflects both institutional prestige and the types of industries recruiting from elite programs. However, that comparison may matter less than whether the math degree opens doors to the career paths your child wants—teaching, actuarial work, data analysis, or graduate school all have different earnings trajectories.
The real limitation here is uncertainty: these estimates come from peer programs across Massachusetts, not Merrimack's actual graduates. If your child is considering Merrimack specifically, request alumni outcome data directly from the college. Ask about job placement rates, typical employers, and what proportion of graduates pursue advanced degrees. The estimated numbers suggest reasonable value, but you'll want concrete information about where Merrimack's math graduates actually land before committing.
Where Merrimack College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (44 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $51,786 | $61,761* | — | $19,334* | — | |
| $67,844 | $110,512* | — | $17,750* | 0.16 | |
| $60,156 | $109,288* | $180,882 | $10,003* | 0.09 | |
| $67,280 | $78,500* | $109,199 | $14,745* | 0.19 | |
| $63,141 | $76,392* | $90,232 | $21,750* | 0.28 | |
| $58,150 | $74,737* | — | $19,334* | 0.26 | |
| 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 Merrimack College, approximately 15% 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 15 similar programs in MA. Actual outcomes may vary.