Applied Mathematics at Washington State University

Washington State University's Applied Mathematics program shows an unusual earnings pattern that parents should examine carefully before dismissing it. That $27,626 first-year figure looks alarming—it ranks in just the 5th percentile nationally—but the four-year earnings of $59,019 nearly match the national median of $60,930. This suggests graduates may be pursuing graduate school, temporary positions, or internships immediately after graduation before moving into their target careers.

The state comparison is telling: while this program ranks low nationally for first-year earnings, it's actually at the 60th percentile among Washington's applied math programs, indicating this delayed earnings trajectory may be common in the state. The modest $17,675 in debt (below both national and state medians) means graduates can afford to take lower-paying entry positions while they establish themselves. However, the small sample size—under 30 graduates—makes these numbers less reliable than data from larger programs.

For families comfortable with a child earning less than $30,000 initially, this could work if you have financial runway to support them during that first year or two. The dramatic earnings growth suggests the degree has value, but you're banking on a longer timeline to career launch than most programs require. If your student needs immediate post-graduation income, look elsewhere.