Rankings / Social Mobility

Best Social Mobility Colleges for Mathematics

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$87,158

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

88%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$25,192

Avg. Net Price

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The best colleges for mathematics not only excel in academic rigor but also show a remarkable ability to enhance social mobility for their students. With an average earnings figure of $86,666 for graduates, these institutions demonstrate a strong commitment to ensuring their programs lead to successful outcomes. As families consider their options, understanding the social mobility aspect becomes crucial in making a choice that impacts future financial stability.

What sets these schools apart from the rest is their combination of high graduation rates, manageable debt levels, and impressive post-graduate earnings. For instance, the institutions listed below feature graduation rates averaging 87%, reflecting their dedication to supporting students through their academic journeys. We can see how factors like net price and average debt also play a role in determining which schools truly foster mobility versus those that may not deliver as well on these promises.

Take Stanford University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, for example. While both schools have outstanding graduation rates, Stanford's average earnings are $124,080, compared to MIT's $143,372. However, MIT's higher net price of $20,111 and debt of $14,768 compared to Stanford’s $13,807 net price and debt of $12,000 highlights the tradeoffs families need to consider when weighing these impressive institutions.

Key Findings

Stanford University graduates earn an average of $124,080.

MIT boasts a 96% graduation rate, the highest among the top five.

Harvard University students face an average debt of $14,000 upon graduation.

The average earnings of graduates from these schools stand at $86,666, showing robust financial outcomes.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $87,158

Avg. graduation rate 88%

Avg. net price $25,192

Avg. median debt $18,413

How We Ranked

Ranked by social mobility with program concentration in Mathematics & Statistics

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Graduation92%

Earnings$124,080

Net Price$13,807

View full profile →

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA

Graduation96%

Earnings$143,372

Net Price$20,111

View full profile →

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL

Graduation95%

Earnings$91,885

Net Price$14,860

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 92% and median earnings of $124,080 ten years after graduation, Stanford University clearly attracts students who are serious about their futures. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, it’s no surprise that many graduates find themselves at the forefront of industries like technology and entrepreneurship, often shaping the innovations we see today.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

At MIT, the graduation rate is an impressive 96%, with median earnings reaching $143,372 after a decade. This kind of success stems from a strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, where students are not just learning but innovating and solving real-world problems as part of their education.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Chicago is known for its rigorous academic environment, reflected in its 95% graduation rate and median earnings of $91,885 a decade after students complete their degree. It's a place where critical thinking is paramount, encouraging students to engage deeply with complex ideas and theories, preparing them for diverse careers across various fields.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard University, with its 97% graduation rate, speaks volumes about the commitment of its students and faculty. The median earnings of $101,817 after ten years reflect not only the quality of education but also the extensive network of opportunities available to graduates, helping them propel their careers in countless directions.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

Brown University, nestled in Providence, Rhode Island, attracts students with its unique approach to education. Known for its flexible curriculum, Brown encourages intellectual exploration, allowing students to tailor their studies to fit their interests. With a graduation rate of 96% and median earnings of $93,487 after ten years, graduates often find themselves well-prepared for meaningful careers in various fields.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore is synonymous with research excellence. With a graduation rate of 94%, it cultivates a community of scholars eager to make a difference in the world. The university's median earnings of $87,555 at ten years reflect the high demand for its graduates in health, science, and technology fields, making it a solid choice for ambitious students looking to impact society positively.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University, located in the heart of Houston, Texas, is known for its intimate campus and rigorous academics. With a remarkable 95% graduation rate, students here not only receive a high-quality education but also have pathways to substantial earnings after graduation, averaging $89,718 at the ten-year mark.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 97%, the University of Pennsylvania positions itself as a leader in academic success. Located in Philadelphia, this private nonprofit institution has a strong focus on research and innovation, attracting some of the brightest minds from around the world. The median earnings of $111,371 after ten years speak to the value of a Penn degree in the job market, making it a compelling choice for students aiming for high-impact careers.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in the picturesque town of Williamstown, Massachusetts, Williams College presents a close-knit community focused on academic excellence. With a 95% graduation rate and impressive median earnings of $88,665 after ten years, students here are positioned for success in their future careers.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#10

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

Duke University, situated in Durham, North Carolina, combines a beautiful campus with a strong commitment to academics and research. With a graduation rate of 96%, students not only complete their degrees but also enjoy considerable financial benefits, with average earnings of $97,800 a decade after graduation.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA, is known for its emphasis on innovation and technology, drawing 7,304 students eager to push boundaries in their fields. The university’s 93% graduation rate reflects its commitment to student success and the rigorous academic environment that supports individual growth and development.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#12

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill boasts a rich history and a vibrant campus culture that attracts students from all walks of life. With a graduation rate of 92%, students benefit from strong academic programs and a supportive environment that encourages personal development and community engagement.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#13

Yale University

New Haven, CT · 6,758 students · Private nonprofit

Yale University in New Haven, CT, is home to a vibrant community of 6,758 students who are drawn to its rich history and commitment to academic excellence. With a graduation rate of 96%, Yale fosters an environment where students are encouraged to explore their passions and challenge their thinking in a supportive setting.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire, offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and a vibrant campus life. The institution boasts a 96% graduation rate and impressive median earnings of $97,434 ten years post-graduation, suggesting that its graduates are well-prepared for lucrative careers.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#15

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College, a small liberal arts college in Massachusetts, is dedicated to fostering a close-knit community where each of its 1,911 students can thrive. The 94% graduation rate reflects the college's commitment to academic excellence and personalized support for its students, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a more intimate educational experience.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#16

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Claremont, California, Pomona College is a private liberal arts institution that prides itself on its intimate learning environment. With just 1,666 students and a graduation rate of 93%, this college emphasizes personalized education and close faculty-student relationships that foster academic and personal growth.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

#17

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

With a mere 987 students, the California Institute of Technology offers an intimate and rigorous academic environment. Known for its pioneering research and emphasis on science and engineering, Caltech graduates leave with a strong foundation in their fields. The impressive median earnings of $128,566 at ten years post-graduation highlight the financial benefits of a Caltech education, making it an attractive option for those passionate about STEM disciplines.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

#18

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · 8,973 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the heart of New York City, Columbia University attracts 8,973 students eager to immerse themselves in a dynamic urban environment. The university's 96% graduation rate speaks to its strong commitment to student achievement, as well as the rich array of resources and opportunities available to its students.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#19

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College, nestled in Brunswick, ME, offers an intimate academic setting with just 1,873 students. Its 95% graduation rate indicates a strong support system that helps students succeed while engaging deeply in their studies and campus life.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#20

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, is known for its vibrant campus life and strong academic programs, boasting a graduation rate of 91%. The university's rich resources and diverse student body create a dynamic atmosphere that encourages exploration and collaboration across disciplines.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Haverford College, nestled in Haverford, Pennsylvania, has a strong commitment to both academic rigor and social responsibility. With a 90% graduation rate, it fosters a collaborative learning environment that encourages students to challenge themselves and each other through close faculty mentorship and a focus on ethical leadership.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#22

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College, with a remarkable 93% graduation rate, provides a unique liberal arts experience for its 1,613 students. Known for its rigorous academics and commitment to social responsibility, the school creates an intimate learning environment that encourages deep intellectual exploration and personal growth.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#23

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 91%, Davidson College emphasizes a supportive environment where students thrive academically and personally. Located in Davidson, North Carolina, this private nonprofit school cultivates a close-knit community that encourages intellectual growth and active engagement in social issues.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#24

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN · 8,818 students · Private nonprofit

With a striking graduation rate of 96%, the University of Notre Dame excels in fostering student success. The school combines a rich tradition of academic excellence with a vibrant campus life, attracting students who thrive in a tight-knit community steeped in values and spirit.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#25

Carleton College

Northfield, MN · 2,086 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Northfield, Minnesota, Carleton College attracts students who are eager to engage deeply with their education. The college is known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts, encouraging students to think critically and creatively across disciplines. With a graduation rate of 90%, it’s clear that Carleton provides a supportive environment that fosters academic achievement and personal growth.

20% accepted 90% graduate $75,525 earnings

Carleton's full profile

#26

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 90%, Bates College in Lewiston, Maine, emphasizes a commitment to student success. The school fosters a close-knit community where students are encouraged to explore their passions while receiving personalized attention from faculty. This strong support system helps students thrive academically and socially, creating a vibrant campus life.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX · 42,855 students · Public

The University of Texas at Austin is a vibrant hub for over 42,000 students, known for its diverse programs and strong school spirit. With a graduation rate of 88%, this public university fosters an engaging academic environment where students can thrive across various fields of study, from engineering to the arts.

27% accepted 88% graduate $75,121 earnings

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

Socorro, NM · 995 students · Public

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, located in Socorro, is not just about mining and technology; it also cultivates problem solvers across various fields. With a unique focus on STEM education, students receive hands-on experience that prepares them for high-demand careers. The school’s environment encourages exploration and discovery, ideal for those eager to dive deep into their studies.

44% accepted 57% graduate $76,489 earnings

Middlebury College

Middlebury, VT · 2,738 students · Private nonprofit

Middlebury College, nestled in the scenic Vermont landscape, is an ideal spot for students seeking a liberal arts education that emphasizes critical thinking and interdisciplinary studies. With an impressive graduation rate of 92%, the college cultivates a supportive atmosphere where students are encouraged to explore their passions and develop a well-rounded skill set.

11% accepted 92% graduate $76,310 earnings

Middlebury's full profile

#30

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA · 1,729 students · Private nonprofit

Grinnell College in Iowa is known for its rigorous academics and commitment to social justice. With an 88% graduation rate, this private nonprofit institution encourages critical thinking and independent study, leading to a median earning of $62,830 ten years after graduation, which reflects its strong liberal arts education.

15% accepted 88% graduate $62,830 earnings

Grinnell's full profile

#31

Colorado School of Mines

Golden, CO · 6,155 students · Public

In Golden, Colorado, the Colorado School of Mines attracts students with a passion for engineering and applied sciences. With a graduation rate of 81% and a focus on high-quality education, this public institution has become a well-respected choice among aspiring engineers, offering significant opportunities in a field with strong demand.

61% accepted 81% graduate $97,335 earnings

Colorado's full profile

#32

University of Rochester

Rochester, NY · 6,331 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earnings figure of $79,042 ten years after graduation, the University of Rochester showcases its commitment to student success. The school has an impressive 85% graduation rate, suggesting that most students not only enroll but also finish their degrees, equipping them for thriving careers.

40% accepted 85% graduate $79,042 earnings

University's full profile

#33

Trinity University

San Antonio, TX · 2,505 students · Private nonprofit

26% accepted 83% graduate $71,668 earnings

Trinity's full profile

#34

New York University

New York, NY · 28,663 students · Private nonprofit

With nearly 29,000 students, New York University immerses you in one of the world's most vibrant cities. The university's 88% graduation rate suggests a supportive environment where students are likely to thrive, backed by a diverse array of academic programs and cutting-edge resources. This is a place where classrooms extend beyond traditional walls, filled with opportunities to engage with New York's rich cultural landscape.

9% accepted 88% graduate $82,509 earnings

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Troy, NY · 5,714 students · Private nonprofit

63% accepted 83% graduate $102,051 earnings

Rensselaer's full profile

#36

Stevens Institute of Technology

Hoboken, NJ · 4,222 students · Private nonprofit

48% accepted 88% graduate $108,772 earnings

Stevens's full profile

#37

University of Connecticut

Storrs, CT · 19,835 students · Public

52% accepted 84% graduate $73,997 earnings

University's full profile

#38

Truman State University

Kirksville, MO · 2,513 students · Public

84% accepted 68% graduate $56,280 earnings

Truman's full profile

#39

Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, CA · 921 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Harvey Mudd College in Claremont, California, is a small private nonprofit school that emphasizes STEM education. The focus on collaboration and hands-on learning prepares students for high-earning careers, evidenced by the median earnings of $138,687 a decade after graduation.

13% accepted 93% graduate $138,687 earnings

Harvey's full profile

#40

The College of New Jersey

Ewing, NJ · 7,105 students · Public

62% accepted 86% graduate $73,323 earnings

Virginia Military Institute

Lexington, VA · 1,527 students · Public

71% accepted 79% graduate $77,369 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#42

College of the Holy Cross

Worcester, MA · 3,106 students · Private nonprofit

18% accepted 88% graduate $90,543 earnings

College's full profile

#43

Bryn Mawr College

Bryn Mawr, PA · 1,359 students · Private nonprofit

29% accepted 84% graduate $75,217 earnings

Vassar College

Poughkeepsie, NY · 2,444 students · Private nonprofit

19% accepted 90% graduate $71,366 earnings

Vassar's full profile

#45

Franklin and Marshall College

Lancaster, PA · 1,799 students · Private nonprofit

28% accepted 85% graduate $76,124 earnings

Franklin's full profile

#46

Mayville State University

Mayville, ND · 733 students · Public

40% graduate $47,828 earnings

Mayville's full profile

#47

Fordham University

Bronx, NY · 10,512 students · Private nonprofit

59% accepted 81% graduate $85,569 earnings

Fordham's full profile

#48

Whitman College

Walla Walla, WA · 1,531 students · Private nonprofit

38% accepted 81% graduate $67,589 earnings

Whitman's full profile

#49

Brandeis University

Waltham, MA · 3,618 students · Private nonprofit

41% accepted 86% graduate $77,231 earnings

Brandeis's full profile

#50

Macalester College

Saint Paul, MN · 2,131 students · Private nonprofit

29% accepted 89% graduate $63,878 earnings

Macalester's full profile

When we look closer at the data, the University of Chicago stands out with impressive graduation rates of 95%, but its average earnings of $91,885 are notably lower than MIT's $143,372. This shows that while graduation rates are crucial, the earning potential post-graduation is equally important in evaluating a program’s impact on social mobility. MIT clearly outperforms on earnings, which may appeal more to families prioritizing long-term financial stability.

After scrolling through these 50 schools, it's essential to think about how this data fits into your personal priorities. Consider factors like location, campus culture, and specific program strengths as you weigh your options. For instance, a school with a slightly lower earning potential might offer unique opportunities in your desired field or a more supportive community that aligns better with your values. This holistic approach will help you make a well-rounded decision.

Ultimately, the data reveals that attending a school committed to social mobility can significantly influence the journey from college into a stable career. A family weighing their choices today must recognize that the financial implications of their college choice can reverberate for years. Choosing a school like Stanford or MIT isn’t just about prestige; it’s about paving a path to a more secure future.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

Chetty, R., Jackson, M., Kuchler, T., et al. (2022). Social Capital I: Measurement and Associations with Economic Mobility. Nature, 608, 108-121. →

[3]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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