Mathematics at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College

Based on comparable mathematics programs in Indiana, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods appears positioned right at the state median with estimated first-year earnings of $58,764—well above the $48,772 national figure for math graduates. With projected debt of $21,750, you're looking at a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37, meaning roughly four months of gross income to cover the full borrowed amount. That's a reasonable financial foundation, particularly for a school serving many first-generation college students (51% receive Pell grants).

The challenge is the uncertainty. These estimates are drawn from seven Indiana programs and 66 similar-sized institutions nationally because this specific program graduates too few students for the Department of Education to publish actual outcomes. That small cohort size could signal limited course offerings, fewer networking opportunities, or variable year-to-year job placement. Indiana's math bachelor's market shows wide variance—from Rose-Hulman's $86,000 to Purdue's $49,000—so individual program quality and student preparation matter enormously.

The practical question is whether you're comfortable investing based on state averages rather than this school's track record. If your child thrives in small classes and needs individualized support, the intimate setting could justify the leap. But if they're seeking proven outcomes and robust STEM resources, programs with published data—like Indiana University-Bloomington at similar earnings with transparent results—reduce the guesswork considerably.