Analysis
East Texas Baptist University's interdisciplinary studies program ranks in the bottom 10th percentile among Texas programs in the same field—a significant gap when the state median sits at $48,381 versus this program's first-year earnings of $31,652. That's roughly $17,000 less than what graduates earn from comparable programs at state schools, including several public universities where graduates exceed $55,000 in early earnings. Even nationally, these graduates earn in just the 18th percentile, trailing most peer programs despite carrying typical debt levels around $27,000.
The positive signal here is strong earnings growth: graduates see a 43% jump from year one to year four, reaching $45,259. This trajectory suggests the degree eventually provides pathways to better compensation, though it takes time to catch up. The debt load itself isn't excessive—the 0.85 debt-to-earnings ratio is manageable—but the combination of below-average starting pay and a four-year wait to reach moderate income levels creates financial pressure during those critical early working years.
For families prioritizing immediate career outcomes and earnings potential, this program substantially underperforms Texas alternatives. The value case depends entirely on non-financial factors like the institution's faith-based mission or specific professional networks. If those aren't decisive factors, comparable programs at Texas public universities offer significantly stronger earnings outcomes from day one.
Where East Texas Baptist University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How East Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| East Texas Baptist University | $31,652 | $45,259 | +43% |
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 East Texas Baptist UniversityMarshall | $30,050 | $31,652 | $45,259 | $26,950 | 0.85 |
 Texas Southern UniversityHouston | $9,173 | $57,511 | $53,527 | $37,125 | 0.65 |
 University of HoustonHouston | $9,711 | $56,904 | $53,107 | $21,500 | 0.38 |
 University of Houston-Clear LakeHouston | $7,746 | $56,645 | $53,078 | $20,904 | 0.37 |
 Texas Woman's UniversityDenton | $8,648 | $54,038 | $51,475 | $21,668 | 0.40 |
 University of North TexasDenton | $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 East Texas Baptist University, approximately 31% 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 48 graduates with reported earnings and 50 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.