Median Earnings (1yr)
$43,225
26th percentile (25th in NE)
Median Debt
$19,261
10% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.45
Manageable
Sample Size
44
Adequate data

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 $64,000—a 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 patience—those 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

University of Nebraska-LincolnOther mathematics programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How University of Nebraska-Lincoln graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Nebraska-Lincoln graduates earn $43k, placing them in the 26th percentile of all mathematics bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Nebraska

Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Nebraska (16 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Nebraska-Lincoln$43,225$63,798$19,2610.45
University of Nebraska at Omaha$58,995$26,0690.44
National Median$48,772$21,5000.44

Other Mathematics Programs in Nebraska

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Nebraska schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Omaha
$8,370$58,995$26,069

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.