Analysis
Based on similar bachelor's programs in Louisiana, mathematics graduates in the state earn around $44,000 in their first year—a figure that lags the national median of $48,772 for this major by about $5,000. The estimated debt load of $21,500 sits right at the national median, though it's notably higher than Louisiana's typical $15,000 for math programs. This puts the debt-to-earnings ratio at 0.49, meaning graduates would owe roughly half a year's salary—manageable territory that suggests the degree could pay for itself within a few years of steady work.
The challenge here is the uncertainty. Since Southern University Law Center's actual outcomes aren't reported (likely due to small class sizes in this program), we're extrapolating from other Louisiana math programs. The state's range is wide: Tulane graduates start around $56,000 while UL Lafayette grads begin closer to $42,000. Where this specific program lands within that spectrum matters enormously for return on investment.
For an anxious parent, the question becomes whether you're comfortable with educated guesswork. The estimated numbers suggest reasonable value—debt that's not crushing paired with earnings that, while modest, align with state norms. But without knowing this program's actual track record, you're essentially betting that it performs like the average Louisiana math degree. If your student has options with transparent outcomes data, those might offer more certainty about what you're paying for.
Where Southern University Law Center Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Louisiana
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Louisiana (21 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | $44,136* | — | $21,498* | — | |
| $65,538 | $55,916* | — | $14,957* | 0.27 | |
| $11,954 | $44,136* | $56,090 | $15,000* | 0.34 | |
| $10,418 | $42,475* | — | $24,200* | 0.57 | |
| 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). 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 3 similar programs in LA. Actual outcomes may vary.