Mathematics at University of South Carolina-Columbia

A math degree from USC Columbia shows promising earnings growth, though the limited data warrants some caution. With fewer than 30 graduates tracked, these numbers may not fully represent typical outcomes, but the trajectory is encouraging: graduates start around $50,000 and reach nearly $70,000 by year four—a 39% jump that outpaces many STEM fields. Among South Carolina's 29 math programs, this lands solidly in the 60th percentile, performing slightly better than the state median and even edging out larger programs like Clemson's.

The $22,700 debt load is manageable relative to first-year earnings, creating a debt-to-income ratio of 0.45 that most financial advisors would consider reasonable. This sits right at the national median for math programs, meaning your child wouldn't be taking on unusual risk compared to similar degrees elsewhere. The strong earnings acceleration after year one suggests graduates successfully transition into analytical roles that value experience—whether in actuarial science, data analysis, or related fields.

The small sample size is the main asterisk here. If most tracked graduates landed at one or two particularly generous employers, that could skew the picture. Still, the fundamentals look sound: moderate debt, competitive starting pay for South Carolina, and meaningful salary progression. For a student confident in quantitative work and planning to stay in the region, this program delivers solid middle-class earnings without excessive borrowing.