Analysis
A mathematics bachelor's degree appears to position graduates for modest but stable entry-level earnings, with similar programs nationwide typically producing first-year salaries around $49,000. The University of Mary's program likely follows this pattern, though without school-specific data, parents should recognize they're relying on broader national trends rather than this institution's track record. With an estimated debt load of $21,750—close to the national median for math programs—graduates would face a manageable 45-cent debt burden for every dollar earned in their first year.
What works in a parent's favor here is mathematics' versatility. These degrees open doors to teaching, data analysis, actuarial work, and various business roles, often with clearer advancement trajectories than liberal arts fields. North Dakota's smaller job market might initially limit local opportunities compared to metro areas, but math graduates typically have geographic flexibility. The estimated figures suggest a reasonable financial foundation, assuming graduates can leverage the degree into roles that use quantitative skills.
The crucial caveat: these are national estimates, not outcomes from University of Mary graduates specifically. Before committing, press the school for employment outcomes and alumni connections in fields your child finds interesting. The financial picture looks workable on paper, but you'll want confidence that this particular program prepares students for the jobs those national figures represent.
Where University of Mary Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Mathematics bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $21,468 | $48,772* | — | $21,750* | — | |
| $65,805 | $121,088* | $99,927 | $13,000* | 0.11 | |
| $67,844 | $110,512* | — | $17,750* | 0.16 | |
| $60,156 | $109,288* | $180,882 | $10,003* | 0.09 | |
| $65,739 | $108,255* | $124,017 | $11,617* | 0.11 | |
| $63,946 | $103,812* | $125,955 | $10,000* | 0.10 | |
| National Median | — | $48,772* | — | $21,500* | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with mathematics graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Mathematicians
Statisticians
Biostatisticians
Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Mathematical Science Occupations, All Other
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Mary, approximately 18% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 253 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.