Analysis
Four years out, this program's graduates earn $70,375—a solid trajectory that suggests the degree delivers on its promise even if the early years look tougher. Based on comparable programs in Oregon, first-year earnings around $41,316 put University of Portland's math program right at the state median, which isn't particularly strong relative to national benchmarks ($48,772). The estimated $21,750 in debt is slightly above Oregon's typical math major ($19,417) but manageable, translating to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.53—better than many fields.
The four-year earnings figure is what makes this program worth considering. That jump from an estimated $41,000 to over $70,000 suggests graduates are landing positions with real advancement potential, likely in analytics, tech, or finance roles where math degrees carry weight. While we can't verify these estimates are specific to University of Portland graduates—they're derived from peer programs—the reported four-year number provides concrete evidence that this program's alumni are finding their footing in the job market.
For families willing to invest around $22,000 in debt, the question is whether the university's smaller, Catholic mission-oriented environment justifies paying slightly more than Oregon's state schools while starting at comparable salaries. The strong mid-career earnings suggest the degree has value, but you're essentially betting that University of Portland's network and teaching approach will help your student reach that $70,000 mark faster than alternatives.
Where University of Portland Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Portland | — | $70,375 | — |
| Portland State University | $37,427 | $63,659 | +70% |
| University of Oregon | $25,241 | $62,817 | +149% |
| Oregon State University | $45,204 | $58,658 | +30% |
| Oregon State University-Cascades Campus | $45,204 | $58,658 | +30% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Oregon
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Oregon (16 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $54,900 | $41,316* | $70,375 | $21,750* | — | |
| $13,494 | $45,204* | $58,658 | $19,417* | 0.43 | |
| $12,594 | $45,204* | $58,658 | $19,417* | 0.43 | |
| $11,238 | $37,427* | $63,659 | $26,480* | 0.71 | |
| $15,669 | $25,241* | $62,817 | $15,475* | 0.61 | |
| National Median | — | $48,772* | — | $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 Portland, approximately 19% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 4 similar programs in OR. Actual outcomes may vary.