Mathematics at Troy University

Troy University's mathematics program shows concerning outcomes even by Alabama's modest standards for math degrees. That $31,339 first-year salary falls short of the state median by over $14,000—placing this program in the bottom 10% among Alabama math programs. For context, nearby Athens State produces graduates earning nearly twice as much in their first year.

The $17,500 debt load is actually lower than state and national averages, which keeps the program from being a complete financial misfire. But the earnings gap is substantial enough that it would take years to catch up to what graduates from other Alabama programs earn right out of the gate. When UAB graduates start at $46,130 and Troy graduates start at $31,339, that's a $15,000 annual disadvantage that compounds over time.

The critical caveat: these numbers come from a very small sample of recent graduates, so they might not represent the typical experience. But even accounting for statistical noise, the placement in the 5th percentile nationally suggests systematic underperformance. If your child is set on studying math in Alabama and considering Troy for other reasons (location, campus culture, merit aid), understand they'll likely need a clear plan for graduate school or specific career development to reach earnings their peers achieve more readily elsewhere.