Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at Missouri Western State University

Missouri Western's interdisciplinary studies program starts slower than most, with first-year earnings trailing the national median by nearly $4,000. But the trajectory tells a more interesting story: graduates see 34% income growth by year four, reaching $46,350—a jump that outpaces typical patterns for this major and puts them just below the national 75th percentile. Within Missouri, this program actually ranks in the 60th percentile despite that sluggish start, meaning it's performing better than most in-state alternatives including comparable programs at Lindenwood and Mizzou.

The debt picture is reasonable: $26,863 sits close to both national and state medians, creating a first-year debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.77. That's manageable territory, especially given the strong earnings trajectory. The real question is whether your student can weather those first few years of below-average income—graduates are typically earning about $35,000 initially, which is tight in most markets. However, if they can push through that early period, the data suggests this program builds momentum.

For families considering Missouri schools for interdisciplinary studies, this program delivers middle-of-the-pack value with better-than-average growth potential. The relatively low Pell grant population (28%) might indicate fewer support services for first-generation students, so factor in whether your student has financial cushion for those leaner early years.