Mathematics at Washburn University

Spending roughly $21,500 to earn a mathematics bachelor's degree becomes more palatable when first-year earnings hit nearly $49,000—and that appears to be the case for similar programs nationally. While we don't have Washburn's specific graduate outcomes (small cohort sizes mean the data isn't publicly reported), peer programs across the country typically produce a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44, meaning graduates carry about five months' worth of their first-year salary in student loans. That's a manageable burden that shouldn't derail loan repayment or other financial goals in those crucial early career years.

The estimated earnings align almost exactly with the national median for math programs and edge slightly above what Kansas programs typically deliver ($45,896 statewide). This suggests Washburn's location and curriculum likely position graduates competitively, though top state programs like KU report outcomes in a similar range. Mathematics degrees generally offer solid fundamentals for various career paths—from actuarial work to data analysis to secondary education—which helps explain the relatively consistent earnings across institutions.

Given the moderate debt load and reasonable starting salary projected by comparable programs, this looks like a sound investment if your child has genuine aptitude and interest in mathematics. The key uncertainty is whether Washburn's specific outcomes match these national patterns, something you won't know until more cohorts graduate and data becomes available.