Applied Mathematics at University of Pittsburgh-Greensburg

Pitt-Greensburg's applied math graduates start modestly at $58,358 but see their earnings jump 35% to nearly $79,000 within four years—a trajectory that matters more than the slightly below-average starting point. While initial earnings land at the national median for applied math programs, the strong upward momentum suggests graduates are developing marketable skills that employers increasingly value. Among Pennsylvania's 18 applied math programs, this one ranks in the 60th percentile despite the school's 98% admission rate and accessibility to students from varied economic backgrounds (38% receive Pell grants).

The debt picture is straightforward: $22,571 puts graduates right at the state median, with a 0.39 debt-to-earnings ratio that means students can realistically pay off loans within a reasonable timeframe. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) provides enough data for confidence without the statistical noise of very small cohorts.

For families seeking an affordable entry point into quantitative fields, this program delivers practical value. The combination of manageable debt, solid earnings growth, and open admissions makes it particularly worth considering for students who might not gain admission to more selective programs but still want access to math-heavy careers in data analysis, actuarial work, or operations research.