Analysis
The estimated $25,373 debt load suggested by comparable programs nationwide sits at roughly two-thirds of projected first-year earnings—a manageable ratio if these figures hold true for Pittsburg State's specific outcomes. Interdisciplinary studies programs nationally produce substantial variation in results, with top-performing programs reaching $46,383 in first-year earnings while the median hovers around $38,700. Without actual graduate data from this program, it's difficult to know where Pittsburg State's outcomes fall within that range, though Kansas programs generally cluster near the lower end of national benchmarks.
The challenge with interdisciplinary degrees is that career outcomes depend heavily on how students focus their coursework and what skills they emphasize. Similar programs typically prepare graduates for diverse fields—education support roles, social services, business coordination—but the broad nature of the credential means employers may value specific concentrations or complementary experiences more than the degree itself. The estimated debt burden is reasonable for Kansas, where living costs remain moderate, but the projected $38,700 starting salary leaves limited margin if actual costs or career preparation differ from peer programs.
Given the lack of program-specific data, parents should verify what Pittsburg State's graduates actually do after completing this degree and whether the curriculum includes clear professional pathways. If your student is considering this route, ensure they're building marketable skills alongside the degree rather than treating interdisciplinary studies as an undeclared major with a different name.
Where Pittsburg State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Kansas
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kansas (9 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,008 | $38,704* | — | $25,373* | — | |
| $35,500 | $37,399* | — | —* | — | |
| 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 Pittsburg State University, approximately 32% 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 196 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.