Analysis
A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36 suggests manageable borrowing, though the full picture here requires acknowledging significant uncertainty. Because this program's graduate cohort is too small for the Department of Education to publish outcomes, we're relying on national benchmarks from similar associate's programs in interdisciplinary studies. That national median of $35,979 in first-year earnings sits right in the middle of what Oklahoma programs typically produce—comparable schools like OSU-Oklahoma City and Tulsa Community College report earnings in the $34,000-$37,000 range.
The estimated $13,012 in debt aligns closely with what interdisciplinary studies graduates nationally carry, and it's actually slightly lower than the $14,836 median for Oklahoma programs in this field. For students starting at Eastern Oklahoma State—where 42% receive Pell grants—this level of borrowing represents about 4.3 months of estimated first-year earnings, which falls within what financial advisors generally consider sustainable. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree offers flexibility but can also make career pathways less predictable than more specialized programs.
The key limitation is that we don't know how Eastern Oklahoma State's specific graduates actually fare. If your child is considering this program, the most valuable information will come from the college itself: ask about job placement rates, where recent graduates are working, and whether most students continue to a bachelor's degree—a common path that can significantly improve earnings potential.
Where Eastern Oklahoma State College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Oklahoma
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies associates's programs at peer institutions in Oklahoma (14 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $4,767 | $35,979* | — | $13,012* | — | |
| $3,779 | $37,079* | $34,861 | $15,659* | 0.42 | |
| $3,768 | $34,213* | $35,893 | $14,014* | 0.41 | |
| National Median | — | $35,979* | — | $13,023* | 0.36 |
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 Eastern Oklahoma State College, approximately 42% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 29 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.