Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at Mississippi State University

Mississippi State's Interdisciplinary Studies program sits squarely in the middle of the state's offerings—ranking at the 60th percentile among Mississippi schools—but falls short of national benchmarks. At $36,113 in first-year earnings, graduates earn about $2,600 less than the national median for this degree, and that gap doesn't close over time. The flat earnings trajectory between years one and four is the real concern here: graduates aren't gaining financial ground as they build experience, suggesting limited career advancement in whatever fields they enter.

The $27,000 debt load is manageable at face value—slightly below the state median and resulting in a reasonable 0.75 debt-to-earnings ratio. However, when earnings don't grow, that initial burden becomes harder to shake off. Mississippi State serves a substantial population of first-generation and lower-income students (29% on Pell), and this program may appeal to those seeking flexibility. But the financial ceiling appears low compared to more specialized degrees.

If your child has a clear career path that requires interdisciplinary coursework—perhaps combining education with digital media, or health sciences with business—this could work. But if they're choosing this major for its flexibility without a concrete plan, the stagnant earnings should give you pause. Consider whether a more focused major might offer better long-term financial returns, especially given that Mississippi State offers stronger programs in fields like engineering and agriculture.