Mathematics at Valdosta State University

Similar mathematics programs across Georgia suggest first-year earnings around $44,400 against roughly $22,750 in debt—numbers that place Valdosta State squarely in the middle of the state's math programs. While UGA graduates pull ahead by about $3,000 annually, Valdosta State's estimated outcomes closely mirror what Georgia State produces and substantially exceed Georgia Southern's reported $35,500. The half-to-one debt-to-earnings ratio falls comfortably within manageable territory for a STEM field.

What works less favorably here is the $4,300 gap between these Georgia-based estimates and the national median of $48,800 for math bachelor's degrees. That difference compounds over a career, and since we're working from peer program data rather than Valdosta State's actual graduate outcomes, there's inherent uncertainty about where this specific program lands within Georgia's range. The school serves a predominantly Pell-eligible population, which speaks to its access mission but doesn't change the financial calculus.

For parents weighing this investment: the estimated debt load won't be crushing, and mathematics degrees generally lead to stable employment. However, if your student has options at UGA or even Georgia State, those programs show modestly better earnings potential. If Valdosta State offers significantly lower cost of attendance or better fit, the estimated $22,000 debt burden gives reasonable breathing room to launch a career, even at Georgia-level salaries rather than national ones.