Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies at Jackson State University

Jackson State's interdisciplinary studies program saddles graduates with debt levels that stand out as problematic even in a field known for modest earnings. At $42,752, the typical debt burden is 64% higher than the national median for this degree and 27% above what Mississippi students typically carry. This creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.22—meaning graduates owe more than their first year's salary—when most financial advisors recommend keeping debt below one year's income.

The earnings trajectory compounds the concern. Starting at $35,174, incomes actually decline slightly to $34,336 by year four, suggesting limited career advancement opportunities. While graduates do earn slightly more than the Mississippi median for this field (placing them in the 60th percentile statewide), that's comparing against a state where similar programs already produce below-average outcomes nationally. For context, Ole Miss's comparable program shows nearly identical earnings but with significantly less debt.

This program serves a student body where 68% qualify for Pell grants, meaning many families have limited financial cushion to absorb high debt loads. The math here is straightforward: borrowing $42,000 to earn $35,000 creates real repayment challenges, regardless of how meaningful the interdisciplinary education might be. Families should either identify a clear career path where this degree leads to better-paid opportunities, or explore whether similar programs at Mississippi's other public universities offer more manageable debt loads.