Applied Mathematics at University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus

University of Pittsburgh's applied mathematics program starts graduates at $58,358—slightly below the national median—but the real story emerges in year four, when earnings jump to $78,897. That 35% growth trajectory outpaces typical salary progression and suggests graduates are moving into roles with genuine mathematical sophistication, not just entry-level analyst positions.

Within Pennsylvania, this program punches above its weight, ranking in the 60th percentile despite sitting exactly at the state's median first-year earnings. The $22,571 in typical debt is manageable, with a 0.39 ratio to first-year income that translates to reasonable monthly payments while earnings accelerate. For context, you're looking at debt levels comparable to Robert Morris ($62,328 starting salary) but with stronger mid-career momentum.

The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) means these numbers represent real outcomes, not outliers. The key consideration here is patience: families comfortable with an average first year will likely see strong returns by year four. If your child needs immediate high earnings to manage debt aggressively, other STEM fields might start stronger. But for families planning normal repayment timelines, this program delivers solid long-term value, particularly when you factor in Pitt's research credentials opening doors to analytics, tech, and quantitative roles that reward experience.