Mathematics at University of Dubuque

Math programs across Iowa show a wide range—Iowa graduates from flagship institutions earn anywhere from $43,000 to over $60,000 in their first year. Based on the median of just three reported programs statewide, University of Dubuque's math majors would land near $51,400 annually, which happens to match both the state median and what Iowa State reports. The estimated $21,750 in debt produces a ratio of 0.42, meaning graduates would carry debt equal to about five months of gross income—a manageable starting point for a field where earnings typically grow with experience and specialization.

The challenge here is uncertainty. With an 87% admission rate and average SAT of 1119, Dubuque serves a different student population than Iowa's research universities, yet we're extrapolating earnings from those larger programs. The actual outcomes for Dubuque graduates could differ significantly—either because the school's career services and alumni networks compensate for lower incoming credentials, or because students face steeper barriers to high-paying positions. The 40% Pell grant rate suggests many families are already stretching financially.

If your child is considering this program, recognize you're working with educated guesses rather than track record. The estimated numbers suggest reasonable value, but request employment data directly from Dubuque's career center. Where do their math graduates actually land? What companies recruit on campus? Those conversations will tell you whether this specific program justifies the investment.