Mathematics at St. Thomas University

A bachelor's in mathematics from St. Thomas University comes with estimated debt of $21,750—close to the national median for math programs—but the earnings picture is harder to pin down. Based on what similar Florida math programs report, first-year earnings around $46,000 would be typical, putting the debt-to-earnings ratio at a manageable 0.47. That's reasonable territory: graduates could potentially pay off their loans in well under two years of gross earnings if they focus on it.

The challenge is context. St. Thomas's open admissions (99% acceptance rate) and modest Pell enrollment suggest this isn't competing directly with Florida's flagship programs, where math graduates at UCF and FSU are earning $49,000-$51,000 right out of the gate. The $46,000 estimate aligns St. Thomas more with mid-tier state schools like UNF and UF's lower end. For math specifically—a field where career trajectory matters enormously—that first job and the doors it opens can shape decades of earnings.

The practical takeaway: this program likely offers solid debt levels but uncertain competitive positioning. If your child is considering St. Thomas, focus on understanding their career services, connections to employers in finance, tech, or education, and whether alumni are landing analytical roles versus general office work. The difference between a $46,000 data entry position and a $46,000 junior analyst role with growth potential is everything in mathematics careers.