Analysis
University of Nebraska-Lincoln's math graduates start behind the curve but experience remarkable growth. First-year earnings of $43,225 trail both the state median ($51,110) and national average by 11-13%, placing this program in the bottom quartile among Nebraska math programs. However, by year four, earnings jump to nearly $64,000βa 48% increase that suggests graduates are securing stronger positions after gaining experience or completing additional credentials. The modest debt load of $19,261 means even that slow start remains manageable, with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45.
The pattern here raises questions about what's happening in those early years. Are UNL math graduates pursuing graduate school? Taking time to find their footing in the job market? The data doesn't tell us, but that delayed earnings trajectory matters for students who need immediate income after graduation. For context, University of Nebraska at Omaha's math graduates earn $59,000 from the start, eliminating that uncertain early period entirely.
This program works best for students who can afford patienceβthose with family support or additional funding who won't be immediately burdened by loan payments. The eventual earnings justify the degree, but families counting on quick financial independence should consider why their graduate might earn $15,000 less than peers at UNO during those critical first years.
Where University of Nebraska-Lincoln Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Nebraska-Lincoln graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Nebraska-Lincoln | $43,225 | $63,798 | +48% |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | $109,288 | $180,882 | +66% |
| Cornell University | $87,251 | $127,962 | +47% |
| Vanderbilt University | $103,812 | $125,955 | +21% |
| Dartmouth College | $108,255 | $124,017 | +15% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Nebraska
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Nebraska (16 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $10,108 | $43,225 | $63,798 | $19,261 | 0.45 | |
| $8,370 | $58,995 | β | $26,069 | 0.44 | |
| National Median | β | $48,772 | β | $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 Nebraska-Lincoln, approximately 22% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 44 graduates with reported earnings and 50 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.