Analysis
An estimated $13,000 in debt against first-year earnings around $36,000 suggests a manageable starting point for an interdisciplinary associate degree, though with an important caveat: Rogers State's actual outcomes remain unknown. These figures come from comparable programs nationwide, and Oklahoma's own multi-interdisciplinary programs show considerable variation—nearby Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City reports graduates earning $37,000, while Tulsa Community College grads start closer to $34,000. The 0.36 debt-to-earnings ratio falls within reasonable territory, meaning graduates should theoretically manage loan payments while establishing themselves in the workforce.
The challenge with interdisciplinary studies at the associate level is less about the numbers and more about the pathway. This degree often serves as a bridge—either toward a bachelor's completion or into fields where broad skills matter more than specialized credentials. For families at Rogers State, where 38% of students receive Pell grants, affordability is clearly a factor. If your child plans to transfer and complete a four-year degree, this could be a cost-effective foundation. But if they're entering the job market directly with this associate degree, you'll want concrete answers about what careers this credential opens locally. The estimated figures suggest modest but manageable outcomes; the real question is whether this particular program connects students to opportunities that justify even moderate debt.
Where Rogers State University 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $7,392 | $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 Rogers State University, approximately 38% 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.