Analysis
Based on comparable interdisciplinary programs across Ohio, first-year earnings around $38,000 align closely with both state and national medians for this field—these programs don't typically produce high initial salaries regardless of where students attend. The estimated debt of nearly $26,000 falls within the typical range for bachelor's degrees nationally, though it's slightly below Ohio's median for this major. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.68, graduates would likely dedicate a manageable portion of their income to loan repayment, assuming they secure employment in their salary range.
The challenge with interdisciplinary studies at any institution is that outcomes vary dramatically based on how students package their skills and what career paths they pursue. Similar programs in Ohio show a wide spread, with some graduates at Cincinnati earning in the mid-$40s while others remain closer to the $38,000 mark. Muskingum's estimated figures suggest a middle-of-the-road outcome for the state, neither exceptional nor concerning.
For parents weighing this investment, the key question is whether your student has a clear plan for translating an interdisciplinary degree into employment. The debt load appears sustainable if earnings materialize as peer programs suggest, but without actual data specific to Muskingum's graduates, you're relying on broader patterns. If your student is using this degree as a foundation for graduate school or has identified specific employers who value this credential, the numbers work. If the career plan is still undefined, that's the bigger risk than the financial metrics themselves.
Where Muskingum University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $31,440 | $38,266* | — | $25,878* | — | |
| $13,570 | $44,438* | $51,456 | $27,000* | 0.61 | |
| $6,554 | $44,438* | $51,456 | $27,000* | 0.61 | |
| $6,992 | $44,438* | $51,456 | $27,000* | 0.61 | |
| $17,809 | $39,484* | $42,994 | —* | — | |
| $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 Muskingum University, approximately 41% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 9 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.