Mathematics at Palm Beach Atlantic University

A bachelor's in mathematics from Palm Beach Atlantic carries an estimated $21,750 in debt—roughly the national median for math programs—but the earnings picture based on similar Florida programs suggests below-average returns. At an estimated $46,106 in first-year earnings, graduates would be looking at roughly half their starting salary in debt, a manageable ratio on paper. However, this figure matches only the state median and falls nearly $3,000 short of the national benchmark of $48,772.

The real concern emerges when comparing to Florida's flagship programs. UCF math graduates start around $51,000, while even UNF and UF clock in near $46,000—and those are large public universities with lower tuition. For a private Christian university charging premium rates, PBA's program appears to deliver outcomes that mirror mid-tier state schools at best. The 88% admission rate and modest SAT average suggest this isn't primarily about selectivity affecting outcomes; it may reflect weaker industry connections or geographic placement patterns.

For families considering this investment, the math itself is straightforward: you're paying private school prices for what peer Florida programs suggest will be public school outcomes. Unless the school's faith-based environment or smaller class sizes justify the premium for your family specifically, mathematics programs at Florida's public universities appear to offer comparable or better earnings potential with significantly lower debt burdens.