Analysis
A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36 is manageable territory for an associate's degree, but the complete absence of program-specific data here demands caution. Based on national peer programs, this interdisciplinary studies degree appears positioned near typical outcomes—estimated first-year earnings around $36,000 against roughly $13,000 in debt. That's less debt than the Oklahoma state median for similar programs ($14,836), which matters for graduates who often work in fields where credentials open doors but don't guarantee high starting salaries.
The challenge with interdisciplinary studies is that outcomes vary dramatically depending on what students do with the degree. Some use it as a stepping stone to a bachelor's program; others enter the workforce directly in fields ranging from administration to social services. Without knowing this specific cohort's employment patterns, you're essentially betting on whether your child's career path will mirror the national average. Oklahoma's comparable programs show a fairly tight range—$34,000 to $37,000—which suggests some consistency, but that still leaves substantial uncertainty about this particular program's track record.
Given that over half of students here receive Pell grants, the program clearly serves cost-conscious families. If your child has a clear plan for what comes after—whether that's continued education or a specific career field—this debt load won't become an anchor. Without that plan, you're financing exploration at around $13,000, with no guarantee the degree itself will differentiate them in the job market.
Where Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Oklahoma
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies associates's programs at peer institutions in Oklahoma (14 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $4,943 | $35,979* | — | $13,012* | — | |
| $3,779 | $37,079* | $34,861 | $15,659* | 0.42 | |
| $3,768 | $34,213* | $35,893 | $14,014* | 0.41 | |
| National Median | — | $35,979* | — | $13,023* | 0.36 |
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 Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College, approximately 52% 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 national median of 29 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.