Mathematics at University of North Florida

A UNF mathematics degree sits right at the median for Florida programs, but that middling position comes with a crucial advantage: graduates carry far less debt than most peers. With just $17,345 in median debt—about $3,000 below the state median and $4,000 below the national benchmark—students here are taking on roughly 40% of one year's salary, a manageable ratio that gives them financial flexibility early in their careers.

The modest decline in earnings from year one to year four ($46,176 dropping to $44,283) likely reflects the career reality that many math majors start in analytical or tech roles that value the degree credential, but then either pivot to different fields or see variable compensation patterns in their early years. What matters more is that graduates are earning close to the Florida median for math majors while shouldering significantly less debt. This positions them better than peers at programs like USF, where earnings are lower despite similar debt loads.

The major caveat: these numbers come from a small sample of fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes could vary substantially. Still, for Florida families seeking an affordable math degree from a solid regional university, UNF delivers a lower-risk proposition than its ranking against Florida's top-tier programs might suggest. The debt burden matters more than the difference between earning $44,000 versus $49,000 when you're building a career foundation.