Analysis
The small sample size here demands caution, but these numbers tell a worrying story. Lourdes's Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies graduates start at just $22,921—landing this program in the bottom 10% statewide and bottom 5% nationally. That's $15,000 below what Ohio peers earn from similar programs, and roughly $16,000 under the national median. Even with 53% earnings growth over four years, graduates reach only $35,000, still trailing most benchmark programs.
The debt load of $28,673 wouldn't be alarming at typical earnings levels, but paired with a starting salary under $23,000, it creates real financial strain. That 1.25 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe more than their entire first year's income—a concerning starting point for loan repayment. Compare this to University of Cincinnati's interdisciplinary programs, where graduates earn nearly double in their first year.
Given the program's place at the very bottom of Ohio rankings, parents should view this as a high-risk investment. The small cohort size suggests the data could shift with more graduates tracked, but right now there's no evidence this program delivers competitive value. If interdisciplinary studies is the goal, other Ohio schools offer substantially better outcomes without significantly higher debt.
Where Lourdes University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Lourdes 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lourdes University | $22,921 | $34,987 | +53% |
| University of Cincinnati-Main Campus | $44,438 | $51,456 | +16% |
| University of Cincinnati-Clermont College | $44,438 | $51,456 | +16% |
| University of Cincinnati-Blue Ash College | $44,438 | $51,456 | +16% |
| Ohio State University-Main Campus | $36,725 | $44,842 | +22% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (26 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Lourdes UniversitySylvania | $28,930 | $22,921 | $34,987 | $28,673 | 1.25 |
 University of Cincinnati-Main CampusCincinnati | $13,570 | $44,438 | $51,456 | $27,000 | 0.61 |
 University of Cincinnati-Clermont CollegeBatavia | $6,554 | $44,438 | $51,456 | $27,000 | 0.61 |
 University of Cincinnati-Blue Ash CollegeBlue Ash | $6,992 | $44,438 | $51,456 | $27,000 | 0.61 |
 Miami University-OxfordOxford | $17,809 | $39,484 | $42,994 | — | — |
 Capital UniversityColumbus | $41,788 | $38,266 | $36,237 | $33,544 | 0.88 |
| 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 Lourdes University, approximately 27% 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 16 graduates with reported earnings and 22 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.