Mathematics at Niagara University

Mathematics majors face a competitive landscape in New York, where top programs report dramatically higher earnings—Cornell graduates earn $87,000 in their first year, while RPI alumni start at $80,000. Based on comparable mathematics bachelor's programs across New York, Niagara students can expect closer to $45,880 initially, which sits right at the state median but trails the national figure of $48,772.

The estimated $21,697 in debt produces a manageable 0.47 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning roughly six months of gross income to cover educational loans. This mirrors what similar programs in New York typically generate in borrowing and suggests monthly payments shouldn't overwhelm a starting salary, though that salary itself falls short of what mathematics degrees command at more selective institutions.

The real question is trajectory: mathematics is one of those fields where initial earnings don't tell the whole story, as actuarial roles, data science positions, and graduate school can substantially boost compensation. But Niagara's 85% admission rate and modest SAT scores suggest a less competitive academic environment than programs producing the highest earners. If your child is serious about mathematics and competitive for admission elsewhere, investigating what drives the $30,000+ earnings gap between Niagara's peer programs and New York's stronger mathematics departments would be time well spent.