Analysis
Similar mathematics programs in Alabama suggest first-year earnings around $45,500, which trails the national benchmark by roughly $3,300 but aligns with the state median. The estimated debt load of $21,750 creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.48—manageable territory that suggests graduates could reasonably handle repayment while building careers. However, Oakwood's small graduate cohort means we're working without direct outcomes data, making it harder to know if this program specifically delivers on that promise.
The earnings estimate comes from just four Alabama programs, and the range among top state schools is striking—from $57,600 at Athens State down to $31,300 at Troy. Where Oakwood falls in that spectrum matters considerably. Mathematics degrees typically open doors to teaching, actuarial work, data analysis, or graduate school, but breaking into higher-paying roles often requires additional credentials or strong networking—resources that vary significantly by institution.
For families considering this investment, the nearly 50% debt-to-earnings ratio isn't alarming, but the lack of program-specific data is. Connect with recent Oakwood mathematics graduates directly to understand actual job placements and starting salaries. If most are landing high school teaching positions in Alabama, that $45,500 estimate likely holds. If they're pursuing graduate degrees or struggling to find relevant work, the picture changes. Without verified outcomes from this specific program, you're essentially betting on peer program performance.
Where Oakwood University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Alabama
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Alabama (24 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $21,838 | $45,494* | — | $21,750* | — | |
| — | $57,584* | $49,573 | —* | — | |
| $8,832 | $46,130* | $46,880 | $25,350* | 0.55 | |
| $11,900 | $44,857* | $60,584 | $20,000* | 0.45 | |
| $9,792 | $31,339* | — | $17,500* | 0.56 | |
| 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 Oakwood University, approximately 47% 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 AL. Actual outcomes may vary.