Analysis
A math degree from Millsaps comes with what peer institutions suggest is a manageable debt load—around $21,750 against estimated first-year earnings near $48,800. That 0.45 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates from similar programs typically earn enough in their first year to cover twice their debt, which represents a relatively sound financial starting point. However, it's worth noting that Mississippi State, the only program in the state with published outcomes, reports nearly identical earnings at $48,084, despite likely carrying lower tuition costs as a public university.
The 49% admission rate and 36% Pell grant enrollment at Millsaps indicate a selective private college serving a mix of middle- and lower-income students. The key question becomes whether Millsaps's smaller class sizes and liberal arts environment justify what is presumably a higher sticker price compared to public alternatives, given that early earnings appear comparable. Math graduates typically find work in teaching, actuarial science, data analysis, or pursue graduate study—fields where your undergraduate institution matters less than your quantitative skills and subsequent credentials.
If your child thrives in intimate academic settings and values close faculty mentorship, Millsaps may deliver that experience. But financially, the numbers from comparable programs suggest this degree performs similarly to the state flagship while likely costing more upfront.
Where Millsaps College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Mississippi
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Mississippi (15 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $43,815 | $48,772* | — | $21,750* | — | |
| $9,815 | $48,084* | — | $22,050* | 0.46 | |
| 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 Millsaps College, approximately 36% 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.