Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at East Texas Baptist University

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.