Mathematics at William Carey University

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45 positions this mathematics program in manageable territory, though the figures themselves come with significant caveats. Based on peer programs nationally, graduates can expect around $48,800 in first-year earnings against roughly $21,750 in debt—meaning the loan burden equals about five months of pre-tax income. For a selective liberal arts institution like William Carey, these estimates align closely with what Mississippi State actually reports for its math graduates, suggesting the benchmarking is reasonable even if school-specific outcomes remain uncertain.

The real question is whether a mathematics degree from a smaller regional university opens the same doors as one from Mississippi State or larger institutions. Math majors typically find work in teaching, actuarial science, data analysis, or graduate school pathways—fields where institutional reputation and internship networks can matter considerably. William Carey's 58% admission rate and solid SAT averages suggest capable students, but the limited data itself hints at very small graduating cohorts in this major, which could mean fewer program resources or peer connections compared to larger departments.

For families comfortable with moderate debt and confident their student will leverage the degree effectively—whether through teaching certification, graduate school, or private sector analytics—these numbers don't raise red flags. But the estimates underscore a practical reality: you're investing based on what similar programs produce, not proven outcomes from William Carey's mathematics track record specifically.