Rankings / Value

Most Affordable Colleges for Mathematics

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

Schools Analyzed

$75,053

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

75%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$16,209

Avg. Net Price

Find Your Program

Explore Accredited Programs in This Field

Find accredited programs in this field accepting applicants.

✓ Accredited programs ✓ 100% free ✓ No obligation

When it comes to choosing a college for mathematics, affordability and program effectiveness are critical considerations. Many students are looking to balance quality education with manageable debt, and this list highlights institutions that excel in these areas. The average earnings for graduates from these schools is $75,948, which suggests that students are not just graduating, but also doing well in the job market.

What sets these schools apart are their impressive graduation rates and manageable debt levels. For instance, the top five colleges here have graduation rates ranging from 57% to 95%, while net prices vary, impacting the overall financial burden on students. As you dive into the list below, keep in mind that lower debt and higher earnings can lead to a more stable financial future.

Take Stanford University and the University of Minnesota-Morris for example. Stanford graduates earn an average of $124,080, with a graduation rate of 92% and a net price of $13,807. In contrast, while the University of Minnesota-Morris has a lower net price of $8,837, its graduates earn significantly less at $50,919, with a 62% graduation rate. This illustrates the trade-offs students face when considering their options.

Key Findings

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

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has a graduation rate of 92%, with a net price of $11,655.

Rice University students graduate with an average debt of $11,000, one of the lowest among top schools.

The New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology has the lowest net price on the list at $9,873, but a graduation rate of only 57%.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $75,053

Avg. graduation rate 75%

Avg. net price $16,209

Avg. median debt $18,188

How We Ranked

Ranked by affordability 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 →

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC

Graduation92%

Earnings$72,200

Net Price$11,655

View full profile →

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

Socorro, NM

Graduation57%

Earnings$76,489

Net Price$9,873

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

With a 4% acceptance rate, Stanford University attracts some of the brightest minds in the country. The campus culture fosters innovation and collaboration, creating an environment where students can thrive academically and socially. It’s no surprise that 92% of students graduate, reflecting the strong support systems in place.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

Chapel Hill, known for its vibrant college town atmosphere, is home to the University of North Carolina. With a strong graduation rate of 92%, students here benefit from a supportive community and a wealth of resources. The campus is rich in tradition, and students often form lasting friendships and networks during their time here.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

Socorro, NM · 995 students · Public

While smaller in size, New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology offers a unique focus on engineering and the sciences, attracting students passionate about these fields. The graduation rate of 57% presents a challenge, but for those who persist, the rewards can be significant. This school is particularly appealing for students who want a hands-on, technical education in a supportive environment.

44% accepted 57% graduate $76,489 earnings

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Houston, Texas, Rice University draws in students with a unique blend of rigorous academics and a close-knit community. The school boasts a 95% graduation rate, indicating a commitment to student success and a supportive environment. With only 4,776 students, Rice fosters a sense of belonging and collaboration among its undergraduates, making it ideal for those who thrive in smaller settings.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Chicago is known for its rigorous academic environment and a striking 95% graduation rate, which highlights its commitment to student success. With median earnings of $91,885 ten years after graduation, graduates enter the workforce with strong earning potential.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College in Brunswick, ME, is known for its rigorous academics and supportive community, with an impressive 95% graduation rate. Graduates can expect to earn a median income of $82,735 within ten years, which reflects the strong outcomes of its students within a selective environment where only 7% are accepted.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

University of Minnesota-Morris

Morris, MN · 936 students · Public

With a close-knit community of just 936 students, the University of Minnesota-Morris cultivates a personalized learning environment. The 62% graduation rate suggests that many students find the support they need to succeed.

75% accepted 62% graduate $50,919 earnings

University's full profile

Truman State University

Kirksville, MO · 2,513 students · Public

Kirksville, Missouri, is home to Truman State University, where a commitment to liberal arts education shapes the experience of its 2,513 students. With a graduation rate of 68%, this public university emphasizes academic rigor and personal growth, preparing students for diverse career paths.

84% accepted 68% graduate $56,280 earnings

Truman's full profile

University of the Virgin Islands

Charlotte Amalie, VI · 1,518 students · Public

The University of the Virgin Islands offers a unique educational experience in a beautiful setting, with a 99% acceptance rate that opens doors for many students seeking higher education. Unfortunately, the graduation rate of 28% raises concerns about retention and support, signaling that students may struggle to finish their degrees.

99% accepted 28% graduate $38,681 earnings

University's full profile

#10

Indiana University-East

Richmond, IN · 2,589 students · Public

With a relatively small student body of 2,589, Indiana University-East in Richmond, IN fosters a close-knit community that supports student engagement and academic success. The graduation rate is currently 42%, which suggests room for improvement, but the median earnings for graduates at 10 years out is an appealing $47,156, indicating that students can find pathways to solid careers after graduation.

67% accepted 42% graduate $47,156 earnings

Indiana's full profile

#11

Louisiana State University-Alexandria

Alexandria, LA · 5,632 students · Public

At Louisiana State University-Alexandria, the welcoming environment caters to a diverse range of students, with a whopping 92% acceptance rate. However, the graduation rate of 35% suggests that not every student finds their path here, which can be a consideration for those seeking completion rates.

92% accepted 35% graduate $42,205 earnings

Louisiana's full profile

#12

Mayville State University

Mayville, ND · 733 students · Public

Mayville State University serves a smaller student population of 733, creating an intimate learning environment. However, the graduation rate is only 40%, which may raise concerns about student success. Graduates can expect to earn a median salary of $47,828 ten years after leaving, indicating the need for careful consideration of career outcomes.

40% graduate $47,828 earnings

Mayville's full profile

#13

University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus

Waterbury, CT · 733 students · Public

At the University of Connecticut's Waterbury Campus, students find a welcoming environment with a small enrollment of 733, offering personalized attention and support. The graduation rate is 56%, which is on the rise, and the median earnings after ten years reach $73,997, reflecting the strong job prospects for graduates in the region.

87% accepted 56% graduate $73,997 earnings

University's full profile

#14

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

MIT in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a hub of innovation and research, attracting inquisitive minds who thrive in a rigorous academic setting. With a graduation rate of 96%, students here benefit from a culture that encourages exploration and collaboration, leading them to exceptional career opportunities.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

#15

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

With a staggering 97% graduation rate, Harvard University presents a compelling case for students seeking a rigorous academic environment. The school’s reputation for excellence is matched by its impressive median earnings of $101,817 a decade after graduation, indicating that many graduates go on to successful careers in various fields.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

#16

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College, a small private institution, has a remarkable graduation rate of 95% and median earnings of $88,665 a decade after graduation. Its intimate community of just over 2,000 students allows for personalized attention and support, fostering strong relationships between faculty and students that can lead to lifelong connections and opportunities.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#17

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore is synonymous with groundbreaking research and innovative learning, attracting a bright and driven student body. With a 94% graduation rate and median earnings of $87,555 for graduates ten years post-college, the university prepares students for impactful careers in various sectors, particularly in healthcare and science.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

University of California-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA · 33,475 students · Public

With a bustling campus of 33,475 students in the heart of Los Angeles, UCLA offers an exceptional academic environment characterized by a remarkable 93% graduation rate. Graduates earn a median salary of $82,511 ten years post-graduation, showcasing the significant return on investment for students who thrive in this competitive setting.

9% accepted 93% graduate $82,511 earnings

University's full profile

#19

University of California-San Diego

La Jolla, CA · 34,948 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 87%, the University of California-San Diego is an institution that prepares its students for success in the workforce. The median earnings of $84,943 at ten years post-graduation reflect a strong return on investment for those who choose to study here, especially considering the vibrant campus culture in La Jolla and its focus on research and innovation.

27% accepted 87% graduate $84,943 earnings

University's full profile

#20

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

California Institute of Technology, or Caltech, is a small but mighty institution nestled in Pasadena. With only 987 students and a 94% graduation rate, it fosters a close-knit community where collaboration and innovation thrive. Graduates see significant returns on their investment, with median earnings reaching $128,566 after ten years in the workforce.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

#21

Brescia University

Owensboro, KY · 545 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Owensboro, Kentucky, Brescia University thrives in a close-knit community of just 545 students, allowing for personalized attention and supportive relationships. With 51% of students graduating, the university fosters a nurturing environment that can help students reach their academic and personal goals.

35% accepted 51% graduate $45,500 earnings

Brescia's full profile

#22

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

Davidson College, with its 1,867 students, fosters a strong sense of community and academic excellence. The college boasts a high graduation rate of 91%, and alumni see median earnings of $81,400 after ten years, showcasing the strong return on investment for a Davidson education.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#23

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA · 33,068 students · Public

Located in the heart of Berkeley, the University of California-Berkeley has a remarkable graduation rate of 93%. This statistic underscores the university's commitment to academic excellence and student support, alongside median earnings of $92,446 ten years after graduation. The diverse programs and research opportunities make it an attractive option for students eager to make their mark.

11% accepted 93% graduate $92,446 earnings

University's full profile

#24

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Champaign, IL · 36,258 students · Public

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has an enrollment of over 36,000 students, creating a dynamic and diverse campus atmosphere. With a graduation rate of 85% and a median earning potential of $81,054 after ten years, this public university offers a solid educational foundation that can lead to promising career opportunities.

42% accepted 85% graduate $81,054 earnings

University's full profile

#25

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Pomona College in Claremont, California, attracts students eager for an academically rigorous environment. The small student body of 1,666 fosters close relationships with faculty and peers, enhancing the overall learning experience. The median earnings of $77,779 at ten years post-graduation indicate a solid return on investment for graduates in various fields.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

#26

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA · 1,729 students · Private nonprofit

Grinnell College in Iowa is home to 1,729 students and has an impressive graduation rate of 88%. This private institution emphasizes a liberal arts education, preparing students for various careers with a median earning of $62,830 ten years after graduation. The low acceptance rate of 15% points to a selective admissions process, attracting motivated and ambitious students.

15% accepted 88% graduate $62,830 earnings

Grinnell's full profile

#27

Virginia Military Institute

Lexington, VA · 1,527 students · Public

Virginia Military Institute's unique focus on leadership and discipline attracts 1,527 students who are looking for a structured environment. The graduation rate of 79% suggests that many students thrive here, leading to median earnings of $77,369 within ten years of finishing their degree. This combination of military training and academic rigor prepares graduates for success in various fields.

71% accepted 79% graduate $77,369 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#28

Gallaudet University

Washington, DC · 812 students · Private nonprofit

At Gallaudet University, a unique educational environment caters specifically to deaf and hard-of-hearing students, fostering a strong sense of community among its 812 students. The graduation rate may be lower at 47%, but the university is a leader in accessibility and inclusion, which can enhance the college experience for its students in profound ways.

58% accepted 47% graduate $43,101 earnings

Gallaudet's full profile

#29

University of Connecticut-Avery Point

Groton, CT · 454 students · Public

With a close-knit community of just 454 students, the University of Connecticut-Avery Point offers a unique environment for students seeking a more personal college experience. Graduating at a rate of 59%, students here often find themselves well-prepared for the workforce, with a median earning of $73,997 a decade after graduation.

88% accepted 59% graduate $73,997 earnings

University's full profile

#30

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Seattle, WA · 31,942 students · Public

The University of Washington in Seattle is a vibrant public university with over 31,000 students, offering a diverse array of programs and experiences. Its 84% graduation rate reflects the supportive environment and numerous resources available to students, making it a strong choice for those looking to excel in their studies and beyond.

39% accepted 84% graduate $78,466 earnings

University's full profile

#31

University of California-Davis

Davis, CA · 32,253 students · Public

UC Davis, with its vibrant campus and a strong emphasis on research, serves over 32,000 students committed to making an impact. The university boasts an 85% graduation rate, and its graduates see median earnings of $80,838 within ten years, reflecting the value of a degree from this public institution.

42% accepted 85% graduate $80,838 earnings

University's full profile

#32

University of California-Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, CA · 23,113 students · Public

Home to over 23,000 students, the University of California-Santa Barbara is known for its vibrant campus life and academic rigor. With an impressive graduation rate of 84%, many students leave here with a solid foundation for their careers, reflected in their median earnings of $74,915 ten years post-graduation.

33% accepted 84% graduate $74,915 earnings

University's full profile

#33

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX · 42,855 students · Public

The University of Texas at Austin is bustling with opportunities, serving a dynamic population of over 42,000 students. The school’s 88% graduation rate speaks to its supportive environment, while median earnings of $75,121 at ten years post-graduation highlight its strong return on investment for graduates seeking to enter the workforce with confidence.

27% accepted 88% graduate $75,121 earnings

Aquinas College

Grand Rapids, MI · 1,083 students · Private nonprofit

Aquinas College, located in Grand Rapids, has a more intimate setting with just over 1,000 students, fostering a close-knit community. However, the graduation rate of 64% indicates that students may face challenges in completing their degrees. The median earnings of $49,584 ten years after graduation highlight the importance of seeking supportive resources while pursuing studies here.

90% accepted 64% graduate $49,584 earnings

Aquinas's full profile

#35

Columbia University in the City of New York

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

Columbia University in the City of New York is a prestigious institution with a striking 96% graduation rate. Graduates earn a median salary of $102,491 ten years post-graduation, which reflects the university's strong connections in various industries and the high value placed on its degrees in the job market of New York City.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#36

University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus

Hartford, CT · 1,525 students · Public

The University of Connecticut's Hartford Campus offers a welcoming community for 1,525 students, with an acceptance rate of 88%. The graduation rate sits at 65%, highlighting potential challenges but also opportunities for growth in a supportive environment. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $73,997 within ten years, reflecting the value of their education in the job market.

88% accepted 65% graduate $73,997 earnings

University's full profile

#37

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts

North Adams, MA · 713 students · Public

Located in the scenic town of North Adams, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts is home to a tight-knit community of 713 students. With a 90% acceptance rate, this public institution offers a welcoming atmosphere for those eager to explore diverse fields of study in the liberal arts.

90% accepted 52% graduate $48,102 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

#38

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College in Massachusetts offers a tight-knit academic community with a graduation rate of 94%. With a small student body of just 1,911, the focus is on personalized education and deep engagement with faculty, making it an attractive option for students who thrive in intimate learning environments. Graduates can expect to earn a median of $77,644 after ten years, showcasing the strong outcomes for students who complete their studies here.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#39

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 91%, Emory University in Atlanta has a strong track record of preparing students for success. The median earnings ten years after graduation sit at $80,137, indicating that graduates often find lucrative opportunities in their fields, from healthcare to business.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

University of Connecticut-Stamford

Stamford, CT · 2,432 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 57%, the University of Connecticut-Stamford serves a diverse community of 2,432 students in the heart of Connecticut. The university's median earnings of $73,997 at 10 years post-graduation suggest that graduates can build promising careers, particularly in a city known for its proximity to major business hubs and networking opportunities.

83% accepted 57% graduate $73,997 earnings

University's full profile

#41

Southern University at New Orleans

New Orleans, LA · 1,055 students · Public

Southern University at New Orleans is an urban campus that serves a diverse student body of 1,055. Despite facing challenges reflected in a 16% graduation rate, this public institution is dedicated to providing an education that supports its students, many of whom come from low-income backgrounds, as evidenced by 42% receiving Pell Grants.

79% accepted 16% graduate $34,042 earnings

Southern's full profile

#42

Yale University

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

Yale University stands out with an impressive graduation rate of 96%, reflecting its commitment to student success and support. In New Haven, students can expect median earnings of $100,533 a decade after graduation, suggesting that a Yale degree is a strong asset in today’s job market.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

At Brown University in Providence, students enjoy a culture of academic freedom and exploration, evident in a graduation rate of 96%. The university's innovative curriculum attracts those who want to engage deeply with their studies, reflected in the impressive median earnings of $93,487 at ten years after graduation, positioning graduates for success across various fields.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania is known for its rigorous academic environment, with a graduation rate of 93%. Students here achieve median earnings of $80,257 a decade post-graduation, indicating strong career prospects in various fields, including the arts and sciences.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#45

Stony Brook University

Stony Brook, NY · 18,101 students · Public

Stony Brook University is a vibrant campus with over 18,000 students and a strong reputation for academic excellence, reflected in its 77% graduation rate. With median earnings of $74,502 a decade after graduation, students can expect solid financial returns on their investment, particularly in growing fields such as healthcare and technology in Long Island and beyond.

49% accepted 77% graduate $74,502 earnings

Lycoming College

Williamsport, PA · 996 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 60%, Lycoming College in Williamsport, PA, offers a close-knit community with a student population of around 1,000. The college emphasizes a liberal arts education, preparing graduates for diverse career paths while maintaining a focus on personal growth and mentorship. The 74% acceptance rate means many students have the chance to join this supportive environment.

74% accepted 60% graduate $56,210 earnings

Lycoming's full profile

#47

Virginia Wesleyan University

Virginia Beach, VA · 1,256 students · Private nonprofit

73% accepted 46% graduate $50,074 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#48

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Haverford College, located in Haverford, PA, is known for its rigorous academics and a strong commitment to social responsibility. With a remarkable graduation rate of 90%, students thrive in an environment that emphasizes collaboration and critical thinking. The college's selective acceptance rate of 12% highlights its dedication to maintaining a vibrant, engaged community of learners.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#49

Trinity University

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

26% accepted 83% graduate $71,668 earnings

Trinity's full profile

#50

Bluffton University

Bluffton, OH · 582 students · Private nonprofit

67% accepted 51% graduate $49,547 earnings

Bluffton's full profile

It's worth noting that the data shows a clear pattern in earnings and graduation rates. For example, Stanford University has a remarkable graduation rate of 92% and earnings of $124,080, while the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, with a lower graduation rate of 57%, leads to significantly lower earnings at $76,489. The figures suggest that a higher graduation rate may correlate with better financial outcomes.

After examining the 50 schools on this list, consider how these metrics align with your priorities. If you prioritize lower debt, New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology has an attractive net price of $9,873. But if you’re more focused on earning potential post-graduation, Stanford’s higher earnings may justify the greater investment. Weigh your options against your financial situation, career goals, and personal preferences.

Ultimately, the path from college to a stable life is heavily influenced by choices made during this process. Choosing a school with a strong graduation rate and reasonable debt can set up a family for long-term success. Each decision carries weight, and understanding the financial implications of these choices can lead to more informed outcomes for students and families alike.

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]

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

[3]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

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.

Related Rankings

All Rankings Methodology Best Colleges Social Mobility Highest Mobility