Est. Earnings (1yr)
$35,282
Est. from national median (55 programs)
Est. Median Debt
$30,000
Est. from TX median (3 programs)

Analysis

This interdisciplinary bachelor's at Hardin-Simmons carries an estimated $30,000 in debt—a figure drawn from similar programs at the university—paired with national benchmark earnings of roughly $35,000 in the first year. That 0.85 debt-to-earnings ratio sits in workable territory, meaning graduates could realistically manage monthly payments, but there's a catch: Texas programs in this field show considerable variation, with the state median nearly $8,000 lower than the national figure. Without actual earnings data from Hardin-Simmons graduates specifically, it's unclear whether this program tracks closer to the national pattern or follows the weaker Texas trend.

The degree's interdisciplinary nature cuts both ways. It offers flexibility for students still exploring career directions, but that same breadth can make it harder to compete against candidates with specialized training in fields like business or education. Given Hardin-Simmons' 97% admission rate and the significant portion of students receiving financial aid, many families here are price-sensitive and need programs that translate clearly into employment.

Before committing, push the university for specifics: Where do graduates actually land jobs? What concentrations or add-ons might strengthen the degree's market value? The estimated numbers suggest this program won't bury your child in debt, but without concrete outcomes from this school, you're banking on national averages rather than proven track record. If your student has a clearer career direction, a more targeted major might offer better assurance.

Where Hardin-Simmons University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all multi-/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally

Compare to Similar Programs in Texas

Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (13 total in state)

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SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)*Earnings (4yr)Median Debt*Debt/Earnings
Hardin-Simmons UniversityAbilene$31,686$35,282*$30,000*
Baylor UniversityWaco$54,844$30,687*$27,000*0.88
Wiley UniversityMarshall$12,500$24,629*$35,771$30,000*1.22
National Median$35,282*$26,000*0.74
* Estimated from similar programs
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 Hardin-Simmons University, approximately 38% 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 55 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.