Mathematics at Siena College

A $22,000 debt load for first-year earnings around $46,000 creates a manageable 0.47 debt-to-earnings ratio—roughly half your income, which suggests graduates could realistically pay down this investment within a few years. Based on comparable mathematics programs across New York, this sits squarely at the state median for both earnings and debt, representing a middle-of-the-road outcome rather than exceptional value or obvious risk.

The reality check comes when you look at other mathematics programs in the state. Cornell graduates earn nearly double at $87,000, while even regional competitors like St. Lawrence produce first-year earnings of $58,000. These gaps likely reflect differences in employer access, alumni networks, and institutional reputation rather than curriculum quality alone. Mathematics graduates from peer programs in New York typically enter fields like data analysis, actuarial work, or teaching—but starting salary varies dramatically based on which doors the degree opens.

For a family considering Siena's math program, the key question is whether this middle-tier outcome justifies the investment when stronger alternatives exist in-state. The debt is reasonable enough that it won't derail your child's twenties, but the earnings suggest they'll be competing for entry-level positions rather than commanding premium offers. If Siena provides fit, community, or specific opportunities your child values, these estimated figures suggest a workable financial picture—just not an exceptional one.