Mathematics at Utah State University

A mathematics bachelor's degree from Utah State carries an estimated $21,498 in debt—slightly below both the national median ($21,500) and well under what other Utah programs typically require ($24,625). That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44 suggests manageable repayment, though these figures come from comparable programs nationwide rather than Utah State's specific outcomes. The estimated first-year earnings of $48,772 align almost exactly with both national and state medians, indicating that math degrees produce relatively consistent starting salaries regardless of institution.

The similarity to the University of Utah's reported $48,842 is telling: employers hiring entry-level math graduates appear to focus more on the credential and skills than the specific school name. This works in Utah State's favor, given its 94% admission rate and accessible price point. Mathematics graduates typically move into roles like actuarial analysis, data science, education, or graduate programs, where quantitative skills command steady if not spectacular starting pay.

For parents, this program offers a straightforward value proposition—lower debt than peer programs with earnings that track state and national norms. The real variable will be what your student does with the degree: those pursuing graduate school or specialized certifications often see stronger long-term returns than those entering the workforce directly. Just remember these are educated guesses based on similar programs, not guaranteed outcomes.