Mathematics at Metropolitan State University of Denver

Metropolitan State University of Denver's mathematics program costs students significantly more in debt than the typical Colorado math program—$33,279 versus a state median of $21,760—while delivering earnings right at the national median. That's a concerning mismatch, particularly for an open-access institution where 35% of students receive Pell grants. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.68 isn't disastrous, but it means graduates are carrying debt equal to roughly two-thirds of their first-year salary.

The earnings trajectory offers some reassurance. Starting at $49,000, graduates see their pay climb 24% to over $60,000 within four years—solid growth that outpaces many programs. Notably, Metro State ranks in the 60th percentile among Colorado math programs, placing ahead of flagship schools like CU Boulder and CU Colorado Springs despite the admission selectivity difference. Among the 17 Colorado schools offering math degrees, this program punches above its weight in terms of graduate outcomes.

The core question is whether that higher debt load is worth the access and eventual earnings. For students who need an affordable entry point into higher education and can navigate the larger loan burden, this program delivers competitive results. But families should compare carefully against Colorado State-Fort Collins, which offers similar earnings with likely lower debt for in-state students.