Analysis
A debt load of $21,750 for a bachelor's in mathematics positions graduates reasonably well, with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44 that falls comfortably below the concerning 1.0 threshold. Based on peer mathematics programs in Texas, first-year earnings around $49,700 place this program squarely at the state median—neither exceptional nor worrisome. The estimated debt slightly exceeds the Texas median of $19,745, though it remains manageable given typical mathematics career trajectories where earnings often accelerate beyond the first year.
The comparison to Texas flagships is worth noting. Programs at UT Austin ($60,000) and UT Dallas ($58,200) show significantly higher first-year earnings, while Nelson's more accessible admission profile (84% acceptance rate, average SAT of 1014) serves a different student population—half of whom receive Pell grants. For students who might not gain admission to selective programs, Nelson appears to deliver outcomes consistent with the broader Texas mathematics market without saddling graduates with outsized debt.
The practical question is whether this program provides adequate return for families stretching to cover college costs. The estimated figures suggest a workable financial picture: graduates would face monthly loan payments around $240 on a standard repayment plan, representing about 6% of gross monthly income. That's a reasonable burden for someone entering fields like data analysis, teaching, or actuarial work. Just understand you're looking at typical Texas outcomes rather than this campus's specific track record.
Where Nelson University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (70 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $18,610 | $49,708* | — | $21,750* | — | |
| $64,460 | $74,516* | $79,735 | $21,000* | 0.28 | |
| $11,678 | $60,011* | $75,618 | $20,500* | 0.34 | |
| $14,564 | $58,238* | — | $19,745* | 0.34 | |
| $9,711 | $54,710* | $57,873 | $20,100* | 0.37 | |
| $11,164 | $53,133* | $54,367 | $23,689* | 0.45 | |
| 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 Nelson University, approximately 50% 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 21 similar programs in TX. Actual outcomes may vary.