Mathematics at University of Colorado Colorado Springs

UCCS mathematics graduates face a difficult first year, earning just $37,197—well below both the Colorado median ($46,252) and national average ($48,772) for math majors. This program ranks in the bottom quarter statewide, trailing every major public university in Colorado except Boulder. The $22,500 debt load isn't excessive by itself, but it represents 60% of that first-year salary, creating a tight financial situation right out of the gate.

The dramatic earnings growth to $65,776 by year four suggests graduates eventually find their footing, but that initial struggle matters when you're making loan payments from day one. The small sample size (under 30 graduates) adds uncertainty—these numbers could shift significantly with a larger cohort. Given the school's 97% admission rate and modest academic profile, the question becomes whether students might achieve similar or better outcomes at Metropolitan State or CSU-Fort Collins, both of which offer stronger early earnings.

For families prioritizing stable early career earnings, this program presents a risk. The eventual payoff is solid, but other Colorado options provide more immediate financial traction without requiring students to weather that first difficult year.