Analysis
In Missouri, mathematics bachelor's programs range from standouts like Washington University's $79,000 earners down to programs in the low $30,000s—and Missouri Valley's estimated outcomes place it right in the middle pack. Based on four comparable programs statewide, graduates here can expect first-year earnings around $52,000, which matches the state median and sits above the national average for math degrees. That's solid ground for a field that typically opens doors to various career paths.
The estimated debt of $21,750 creates a manageable financial picture, with borrowers owing roughly 42 cents for every dollar earned in that first year. This debt-to-earnings ratio suggests loan payments that won't dominate a graduate's budget—likely around 10-12% of gross income under standard repayment plans. The debt figure comes from national peer institutions rather than Missouri Valley's specific outcomes, but it aligns closely with what most math programs produce nationwide.
The reality check: Missouri Valley serves a different student population than Washington University or even Mizzou, and peer program estimates can't tell you how this specific college's career services, alumni network, or teaching quality affect outcomes. If your child is choosing between Missouri Valley and a larger state school with documented outcomes in the $48,000-$56,000 range, those programs offer more certainty. But if Missouri Valley's small-college environment is what your student needs to succeed, the estimated math suggests a defensible investment.
Where Missouri Valley College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Missouri
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Missouri (34 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $23,000 | $52,160* | — | $21,750* | — | |
| $62,982 | $79,799* | — | $18,700* | 0.23 | |
| $14,130 | $56,132* | — | $18,500* | 0.33 | |
| $9,024 | $48,188* | $56,610 | $19,922* | 0.41 | |
| $13,440 | $31,856* | $55,947 | $21,143* | 0.66 | |
| 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 Missouri Valley College, approximately 30% 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 4 similar programs in MO. Actual outcomes may vary.