Mathematics at Vanderbilt University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Vanderbilt's math program produces extraordinary outcomes that dwarf both national and Tennessee standards. At $103,812 one year out, graduates earn more than double the national median for math majors and twice what typical Tennessee math graduates make. With just $10,000 in median debt—less than half the state average—the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.10 means graduates could theoretically pay off loans in about five weeks of work. This places the program in the 95th percentile both nationally and within Tennessee for earnings while maintaining among the lowest debt loads in the state.
The earnings trajectory reinforces this advantage: four-year earnings reach $125,955, showing sustained 21% growth rather than plateauing. For context, this exceeds even the University of Memphis (typically Tennessee's highest-earning math program) by $68,000 at the one-year mark. The moderate sample size of 30-100 graduates provides reasonable confidence in these outcomes, though results will vary by individual career path.
The 6% admission rate means getting in is the real barrier here, not whether the investment pays off. For families who can manage Vanderbilt's sticker price or qualify for aid, this represents one of the strongest mathematics programs in the country from a pure return-on-investment perspective. The combination of elite earnings and minimal debt creates unusual financial flexibility immediately after graduation.
Where Vanderbilt University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Vanderbilt University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Vanderbilt University graduates earn $104k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all mathematics bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Tennessee
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Tennessee (34 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vanderbilt University | $103,812 | $125,955 | $10,000 | 0.10 |
| University of Memphis | $57,310 | — | $24,125 | 0.42 |
| Middle Tennessee State University | $45,184 | $52,689 | $18,750 | 0.41 |
| The University of Tennessee-Knoxville | $39,043 | $45,382 | $25,000 | 0.64 |
| National Median | $48,772 | — | $21,500 | 0.44 |
Other Mathematics Programs in Tennessee
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Tennessee schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Memphis Memphis | $10,344 | $57,310 | $24,125 |
| Middle Tennessee State University Murfreesboro | $9,506 | $45,184 | $18,750 |
| The University of Tennessee-Knoxville Knoxville | $13,484 | $39,043 | $25,000 |
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 Vanderbilt University, 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.
Sample Size: Based on 44 graduates with reported earnings and 29 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.