Analysis
Dallas Baptist University's Interdisciplinary Studies program produces concerning outcomes compared to other Texas options. First-year earnings of $35,924 fall well below both the national median ($38,704) and especially the Texas state median ($48,381)—placing graduates in just the 25th percentile among Texas programs. This means three-quarters of similar programs in the state deliver better starting salaries, with top performers like Texas Southern and University of Houston producing graduates earning nearly $20,000 more annually.
The $25,000 debt load appears manageable in isolation, but the weak earnings create a challenging first-year picture. While graduates see decent 18% earnings growth by year four, reaching $42,416, they're still trailing behind what peers from other Texas programs earn right out of college. Given Texas's robust higher education market with 55 schools offering this degree, families have numerous alternatives that provide stronger financial returns.
For parents considering this program, the question becomes whether DBU's specific offerings justify accepting substantially lower earnings potential. The $6,000+ earnings gap in year one translates to real differences in financial independence and quality of life. Unless there are compelling non-financial reasons to choose Dallas Baptist—particular faculty, campus culture, or program features—directing your student toward one of the stronger-performing Texas programs would likely prove a wiser investment.
Where Dallas Baptist University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Dallas Baptist University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dallas Baptist University | $35,924 | $42,416 | +18% |
| Texas Southern University | $57,511 | $53,527 | -7% |
| University of North Texas | $53,733 | $53,283 | -1% |
| University of Houston-Downtown | $49,734 | $53,235 | +7% |
| University of Houston | $56,904 | $53,107 | -7% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (55 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $38,140 | $35,924 | $42,416 | $25,000 | 0.70 | |
| $9,173 | $57,511 | $53,527 | $37,125 | 0.65 | |
| $9,711 | $56,904 | $53,107 | $21,500 | 0.38 | |
| $7,746 | $56,645 | $53,078 | $20,904 | 0.37 | |
| $8,648 | $54,038 | $51,475 | $21,668 | 0.40 | |
| $11,164 | $53,733 | $53,283 | $23,573 | 0.44 | |
| National Median | — | $38,704 | — | $25,495 | 0.66 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Dallas Baptist University, approximately 24% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 90 graduates with reported earnings and 100 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.