Analysis
In Massachusetts, Mathematics and Computer Science programs typically launch graduates into strong earning trajectories, with the state median hitting $126,153—well above what peer programs nationally suggest for UMass Amherst. Drawing from comparable programs nationwide, this degree appears to produce first-year earnings around $89,651, which creates an immediate mismatch with Massachusetts's tech-heavy job market where similar credentials command significantly more.
The estimated $24,000 debt load translates to a manageable 0.27 ratio against those projected earnings, meaning monthly payments should consume a reasonable slice of take-home pay. However, that calculation assumes graduates stay competitive with national peers rather than capturing the premium Massachusetts employers typically pay for this skill set. UMass Amherst's solid admission profile (SAT 1393, 58% acceptance rate) suggests students capable of meeting market demands, yet the $36,000 gap between estimated earnings and the state median raises questions about whether this program positions graduates to compete with MIT and other Massachusetts powerhouses for top-tier opportunities.
The practical concern: if this program's outcomes track closer to national norms than state expectations, you're financing a degree in one of America's most expensive states while potentially earning at the national average. Before committing, investigate where recent graduates actually land jobs and whether the program's career services actively connect students to Boston's tech corridor—that geography could make all the difference in closing the earnings gap.
Where University of Massachusetts-Amherst Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics and computer science bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
Mathematics and Computer Science bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (7 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of Massachusetts-AmherstAmherst | $17,357 | $89,651* | — | $24,082* | — |
 Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridge | $60,156 | $126,153* | — | —* | — |
| National Median | — | $89,651* | — | $23,175* | 0.26 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with mathematics and computer science graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Software Developers
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Mathematicians
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Computer 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 Massachusetts-Amherst, approximately 20% 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 9 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.