Applied Mathematics at University of California-Davis

UC Davis applied math graduates start slow but gain momentum fast—first-year earnings of $54,000 jump to $76,000 by year four, a 41% increase that outpaces typical STEM salary growth. The catch? That starting salary sits below both the national median ($61,000) and California median ($57,000) for this degree, placing Davis in just the 40th percentile among California's 22 applied math programs. While the low debt load of $14,750 means graduates aren't underwater early on, they're earning roughly $10,000 less than peers from UC Berkeley or USC in those critical first years when loan payments matter most.

The good news becomes clear by year four: graduates nearly match Berkeley's starting salary, suggesting Davis opens doors to strong mid-career opportunities even if initial placement lags behind top-tier UC campuses. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.27 is manageable, especially compared to the national median debt of $21,000 for this major.

For families banking on a UC education to deliver immediate financial returns, Davis's applied math program requires patience. If your student can weather lower starting pay—perhaps by living at home or in a lower-cost area—the trajectory justifies the investment. But if first-year earnings are crucial for loan repayment or financial independence, the stronger-earning UC programs warrant serious consideration despite potentially higher sticker prices.