Analysis
Providence College's mathematics program produces first-year earnings of $50,697—slightly above the national median but notably below the $53,014 median for Rhode Island math programs. At the 40th percentile statewide, this means six out of ten Rhode Island math programs deliver stronger early earnings, with nearby URI graduates earning nearly $5,000 more. The $27,000 debt load, however, ranks exceptionally well at the 5th percentile nationally, meaning 95% of math programs saddle students with more borrowing.
That debt advantage creates a manageable 0.53 debt-to-earnings ratio—graduates owe roughly half their first-year salary, which should allow for comfortable repayment. The combination of moderate earnings and low debt suggests Providence's higher tuition is offset by robust financial aid. For context, the typical math program nationally leaves students with $21,500 in debt, so Providence's $27,000 is higher in absolute terms, yet their percentile ranking indicates most comparable programs are even more expensive.
The critical caveat: this data reflects fewer than 30 graduates, making it statistically unstable. A few outliers could significantly skew the numbers either direction. Still, if these figures hold, you're looking at a solid if unspectacular outcome—your child won't struggle with debt, but they're paying a premium for earnings that lag the state average.
Where Providence College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Providence College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Rhode Island
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Rhode Island (6 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $60,848 | $50,697 | — | $27,000 | 0.53 | |
| $16,408 | $55,330 | $58,779 | $23,610 | 0.43 | |
| 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 Providence College, approximately 13% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 20 graduates with reported earnings and 19 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.