Analysis
UVA's mathematics program shows promising returns, but the sample size here matters—we're looking at fewer than 30 graduates, so these numbers could swing considerably with a different cohort. That said, the trajectory is striking: graduates earning just over $60,000 initially see their income jump 65% within four years to nearly $100,000, suggesting strong positioning for quantitative careers that value UVA's brand.
The debt picture is relatively manageable at $19,500, translating to a 0.32 debt-to-earnings ratio that's better than both state and national medians. However, the state context reveals an interesting wrinkle—while this program lands in the 85th percentile nationally, it's merely average among Virginia math programs at the 60th percentile. Looking at the state landscape, UVA trails both Mary Washington and William & Mary in first-year earnings, though the four-year trajectory suggests UVA graduates may be catching up or surpassing peers over time.
For an anxious parent, here's the practical takeaway: if your child is paying in-state tuition and can handle the selective admissions (17% acceptance rate), this represents solid value with reasonable debt and strong earnings growth. The four-year earnings figure suggests UVA's competitive network and reputation open doors in finance, tech, and consulting. Just remember that small sample caveat—these numbers reflect a handful of graduates whose paths may not predict your child's experience.
Where University of Virginia-Main Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Virginia-Main Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Virginia-Main Campus | $60,784 | $99,961 | +64% |
| William & Mary | $60,494 | $91,943 | +52% |
| James Madison University | $58,810 | $74,140 | +26% |
| Virginia Commonwealth University | $43,784 | $69,910 | +60% |
| George Mason University | $54,711 | $69,186 | +26% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Virginia
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Virginia (39 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $20,986 | $60,784 | $99,961 | $19,500 | 0.32 | |
| $14,559 | $61,247 | $60,523 | $24,475 | 0.40 | |
| $25,040 | $60,494 | $91,943 | $20,750 | 0.34 | |
| $13,576 | $58,810 | $74,140 | $20,876 | 0.35 | |
| $15,478 | $55,731 | $61,470 | $23,250 | 0.42 | |
| $13,815 | $54,711 | $69,186 | $24,000 | 0.44 | |
| 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 Virginia-Main Campus, approximately 14% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 27 graduates with reported earnings and 35 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.