Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at Austin College

Something unusual happens between year one and year four for Austin College's interdisciplinary studies graduates: earnings appear to drop dramatically, from an estimated $48,381 to just $26,445. While the first-year figure comes from comparable Texas programs (where this major performs relatively well statewide), that four-year number—if accurate—suggests graduates may be pursuing graduate school, switching careers, or working part-time rather than staying in traditional full-time employment. This volatility makes the value proposition harder to assess than typical bachelor's programs.

The $25,142 in debt sits right at the national median for this major, and with an estimated debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.52 based on that first-year figure, the financing looks manageable—provided graduates actually earn near that Texas benchmark. However, top programs in the state like Texas Southern ($57,511) and University of Houston ($56,904) show that similar programs can produce significantly higher outcomes, suggesting Austin College's interdisciplinary degree may not be optimally positioned for immediate workforce entry.

For parents, the critical question is what happens in those middle years after graduation. If your student plans to use this degree as a stepping stone to graduate or professional school, the debt level is reasonable. But if they're counting on steady post-graduation employment, that four-year earnings figure is a red flag worth investigating directly with the school's career services office.