Analysis
Metropolitan State's interdisciplinary studies graduates earn notably more than peers at most programs—outpacing 87% of similar programs nationally and landing 28% above the national median. That's strong performance for an open-access institution where 44% of students receive Pell grants. However, Minnesota families should note that within the state, this program sits at the 60th percentile, trailing Minnesota-Crookston by about $5,000 annually.
The trade-off comes in the debt picture. At $35,110, graduates carry significantly more debt than both the state median ($30,038) and national median ($25,495) for this degree. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.71 isn't alarming, but it means graduates will need roughly nine months of gross earnings to cover their loans. Earnings do grow modestly—about 6% by year four—though the $52,538 figure still trails the top Minnesota programs.
For students who need Metropolitan State's flexibility (many attend part-time while working), these numbers show the degree delivers decent earning power despite higher borrowing costs. But families comparing Minnesota options should recognize you're paying a premium in debt for outcomes that, while solid nationally, rank in the middle of the pack within the state.
Where Metropolitan State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Metropolitan State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metropolitan State University | $49,751 | $52,538 | +6% |
| University of Minnesota-Twin Cities | $42,339 | $56,840 | +34% |
| University of Minnesota-Crookston | $54,656 | $54,593 | -0% |
| Saint Cloud State University | $42,192 | $44,070 | +4% |
| Winona State University | $40,406 | $43,717 | +8% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Minnesota
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Minnesota (22 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Metropolitan State UniversitySaint Paul | $9,780 | $49,751 | $52,538 | $35,110 | 0.71 |
 University of Minnesota-CrookstonCrookston | $13,120 | $54,656 | $54,593 | $31,000 | 0.57 |
 University of Minnesota-Twin CitiesMinneapolis | $16,488 | $42,339 | $56,840 | $20,500 | 0.48 |
 Saint Cloud State UniversitySaint Cloud | $10,117 | $42,192 | $44,070 | $28,551 | 0.68 |
 Winona State UniversityWinona | $10,498 | $40,406 | $43,717 | $29,750 | 0.74 |
 Minnesota State University-MankatoMankato | $9,490 | $37,880 | $35,235 | $30,325 | 0.80 |
| 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 Metropolitan State University, approximately 44% 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 224 graduates with reported earnings and 275 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.