Mathematics at University of California-Santa Cruz

UC Santa Cruz's Mathematics program starts rough but finishes strong. That $40,798 first-year salary lands in just the 21st percentile nationally—well below the national median of $48,772. But four years out, graduates reach $71,946, representing 76% growth that outpaces most mathematics programs. Among California's 67 math programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile, sitting comfortably above the state median of $38,449, though it trails UC peers like San Diego ($52,339) and Berkeley ($46,674).

The debt picture is manageable: $19,232 represents less than half of first-year earnings and sits below both state and national medians. For a UC education, that's reasonable leverage. The challenge is surviving those lean early years when earnings lag significantly behind what mathematics graduates typically earn. If your child can weather a period of lower initial compensation—perhaps living at home or working in a lower-cost area—the trajectory looks promising.

This program rewards patience. It's not the fastest route to strong mathematics earnings in California, but the combination of moderate debt, solid long-term growth, and a UC degree makes it workable for students who don't need immediate high earnings. Just be prepared for that first year or two to feel financially tight compared to peers at Cal Poly or other top California programs.