Mathematics at Williams College

Williams College mathematics graduates start below Massachusetts' typical outcomes, but their trajectory tells a different story. That $55,193 first-year figure places them in the 40th percentile among Bay State programs—well behind MIT, Tufts, and even sister school Amherst. However, by year four, earnings jump nearly 60% to $87,931, suggesting these graduates move into higher-paying roles as they establish themselves professionally.

The debt picture significantly brightens the overall calculation. At just $13,807, Williams graduates carry roughly 30% less debt than the Massachusetts median and nearly 40% less than the national average. This translates to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.25—exceptionally manageable by any standard. For context, many programs considered "good values" carry ratios above 0.50.

Here's the practical reality: Williams math graduates face a slower start than peers at nearby institutions, but they're doing so with minimal financial burden. That modest debt load provides crucial flexibility during those early career years, whether pursuing graduate school, exploring different career paths, or accepting lower-paying positions that offer better long-term prospects. The strong earnings growth by year four suggests this patience often pays off. This isn't the premium-price-for-premium-outcomes model of MIT or Tufts, but rather a high-quality education with limited downside risk.