Median Earnings (1yr)
$35,924
37th percentile (25th in TX)
Median Debt
$25,000
2% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.70
Manageable
Sample Size
90
Adequate data

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

Dallas Baptist UniversityOther multi/interdisciplinary studies programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Dallas Baptist University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Dallas Baptist University graduates earn $36k, placing them in the 37th percentile of all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Texas

Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (55 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Dallas Baptist University$35,924$42,416$25,0000.70
Texas Southern University$57,511$53,527$37,1250.65
University of Houston$56,904$53,107$21,5000.38
University of Houston-Clear Lake$56,645$53,078$20,9040.37
Texas Woman's University$54,038$51,475$21,6680.40
University of North Texas$53,733$53,283$23,5730.44
National Median$38,704—$25,4950.66

Other Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies Programs in Texas

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Texas schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Texas Southern University
Houston
$9,173$57,511$37,125
University of Houston
Houston
$9,711$56,904$21,500
University of Houston-Clear Lake
Houston
$7,746$56,645$20,904
Texas Woman's University
Denton
$8,648$54,038$21,668
University of North Texas
Denton
$11,164$53,733$23,573

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.