Applied Mathematics at Roger Williams University

At $60,930 in estimated first-year earnings, this program appears to underperform Rhode Island's median for applied mathematics programs by more than $20,000. Brown and Bryant both report significantly higher outcomes for their math graduates, with Brown's reaching nearly six figures. The estimated debt of $25,421 isn't unreasonable—it produces a manageable 0.42 debt-to-earnings ratio—but when combined with below-state-average earnings, it raises questions about competitive positioning in a small state market with only three programs.

The challenge here is that we're working entirely with estimates derived from national peer programs, not actual outcomes from Roger Williams graduates. Applied mathematics programs nationally show wide variation in earnings potential depending on factors like curriculum emphasis, industry connections, and geographic placement. Roger Williams' high admission rate and modest test scores suggest it may serve a different student population than its RI competitors, which could explain lower earnings trajectories if graduates pursue different career paths or industries.

For parents, the core issue is uncertainty: without actual graduate outcomes, you're essentially betting that Roger Williams' program will perform similarly to the national median rather than reaching the higher benchmarks set by other Rhode Island schools. If your student has the academic profile to compete at Bryant or Brown, the earnings difference could amount to tens of thousands annually. Request specific placement data from Roger Williams—where do their math graduates actually work, and what do they earn?